Endrick’s Journey at Real Madrid: Challenges and Prospects Ahead

Endrick joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2024, hailed as one of the most promising young talents in world football. His impressive debut performances in La Liga and the Champions League quickly endeared him to the Madrid supporters, especially as he showcased his skills alongside stars like Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo.

However, the season proved to be a disappointing one for Real Madrid, with the team failing to secure titles in La Liga, the Champions League, or the Copa del Rey. Despite these challenges, Endrick managed to score seven goals in 37 appearances, accumulating just 847 minutes on the pitch. His raw talent was evident, but a hamstring injury at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season sidelined him for over five months.

Since making his return, Endrick has not faced any further fitness issues, yet he has struggled for game time, finding himself relegated to the periphery under head coach Xabi Alonso. His first appearance under Alonso came in a 4-0 victory against Valencia, where he played for the final 11 minutes. Unfortunately, he remained an unused substitute in the two matches prior, which included a disappointing 1-0 loss to Liverpool in the Champions League and a 0-0 draw against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga.

Carlo Ancelotti, who managed Endrick during the previous season, has not yet called up the young forward for any of Brazil’s international breaks since assuming his role in June. Nevertheless, Ancelotti hinted at Endrick’s potential inclusion in the squad for next year’s World Cup, stating, “I spoke with him at the beginning of the season. He was injured, but now he’s fine and back. Endrick is very young; this won’t be his last World Cup. He has the quality to play in 2026, 2030, or even 2034. It’s important for him to get back to playing and demonstrate his abilities.”

In a previous interview, Ancelotti elaborated on Endrick’s limited opportunities during his debut season, comparing him to Estevao, who found immediate success at Chelsea. “Endrick is a great talent, but young players often struggle in Europe because they lack the same leading role they had back home. Competition at a club like Real Madrid is intense, which can hinder a player’s development.”

Recently, Ancelotti suggested that he has already compiled a shortlist of players likely to represent Brazil at the upcoming tournament in the Americas, stating, “The more time I spend with the players, the closer we get to the final list. I believe we are nearing what could be the final selection for June, around 17 to 18 players.”

Endrick has represented Brazil 14 times, scoring three goals, but his last appearance for the national team was in March. With established players like Vinicius Junior, Estevao, Antony, and others performing well, Endrick faces an uphill battle to secure a spot unless he begins to play regularly at the Bernabeu.

Interestingly, Vitor Roque, who transferred from Barcelona to Palmeiras, has recently been called up to the national team, highlighting the importance of regular play in earning international recognition. A change in environment could significantly benefit Endrick’s chances of participating in his first major tournament for Brazil.

Interest in Endrick is growing, with several clubs expressing a desire to acquire him on loan during the upcoming winter transfer window. Bundesliga side Stuttgart is keen to bolster their attack following the departure of star striker Nick Woltemade to Newcastle. Rumors have also circulated regarding potential moves to the Premier League, with Manchester United and Aston Villa being among the clubs linked to the young forward. Additionally, French giants Lyon and Marseille have shown interest in the 19-year-old.