Navigating Career Development: Endrick’s Path at Real Madrid

Real Madrid signed Endrick from Palmeiras in 2022 for a deal potentially worth €60 million. During his inaugural year under Carlo Ancelotti, he demonstrated promise by scoring seven goals in 37 appearances. However, injuries impeded his development, notably a hamstring injury that sidelined him during the Club World Cup and the onset of the current season. Upon his return, new manager Xabi Alonso had already established alternative attacking strategies, resulting in Endrick making only a brief appearance against Valencia this month, in which he played just 11 minutes. This scarcity of playing time has raised concerns regarding his growth, especially with the World Cup approaching next year.

In an interview with The Athletic, Mariano Diaz drew comparisons between their situations, suggesting that leaving Real Madrid does not signify the end of one’s future at the club.

“If Endrick ends up leaving, or if a player who isn’t getting much playtime must go abroad, I would advise him to embrace the opportunity and appreciate the chances of becoming a starter on a team—it can truly be transformative,” Diaz stated. He emphasized that regular starting positions offer players a genuine opportunity to showcase their talents.

“One must strive to prove oneself when granted that confidence; it’s not the same to play a few minutes every three games. You cannot demonstrate your worth in such limited time. However, if they trust you as a starter, that’s when you can substantiate your capabilities. Should Endrick leave, he could always return to Madrid,” added the 32-year-old.

Mariano, who understands the challenges of waiting for opportunities at Madrid, first stepped up to the senior team in the 2016-17 season, netting five goals in 14 matches, yet often found himself overshadowed by the renowned ‘BBC’ trio—Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale, and Cristiano Ronaldo. Although Los Blancos clinched the Champions League and enjoyed an outstanding season, Mariano’s contributions remained limited.

“It was one of the best teams I’ve ever been a part of, as it wasn’t solely about the starters; even what was referred to as ‘Plan B’ was formidable. Interestingly, ‘Plan B’ was often as robust as ‘Plan A.'”

Following that season, Diaz transferred to Lyon to secure regular playing time, a decision he now regards as pivotal for his development. Nevertheless, he returned to Madrid a year later after Cristiano Ronaldo’s unexpected transfer to Juventus.

“Being Madrid, I couldn’t decline the offer. They assured me that this time it would be different, which was why I was eager to return,” Mariano recalled.

However, injuries once again hampered his progress, leading to his relegation to a bench role until his departure in 2023.

Various clubs have expressed interest in Endrick, including Manchester United, who considered him as a replacement option due to Benjamin Sesko’s injury. Nonetheless, the 19-year-old leans towards a move to Lyon, perceiving it as a venue where he can secure playing time, regain confidence, and maintain his chances for the 2026 World Cup with Brazil. While Madrid initially aimed to loan him within La Liga for a smoother transition, keeping him close to home as he approaches Spanish citizenship in six months, Endrick prioritized consistent game time over geographical considerations.

Ancelotti, now the coach of the Brazil national team, has yet to include the young forward in any international breaks. However, the former Madrid coach has advised him to seek regular playing time to remain in the national-team picture.

“He needs to consult with his entourage about what is best for him and discuss options with the club. Endrick is very young; this will not be his last World Cup,” he stated. “He could participate in the 2026 World Cup, given his talent, and potentially in the 2030 or even 2034 World Cup. It is vital for him to return to playing consistently and to demonstrate his abilities.”