Endrick’s Transition to Lyon: A New Chapter Unfolds

In 2022, Real Madrid made headlines by acquiring Endrick from Palmeiras for a staggering fee of up to €60 million, generating high expectations for the young talent. However, his journey in La Liga has been tumultuous. During his debut season, Endrick showcased his potential by scoring seven goals in 37 appearances, leading the club to believe they had discovered a future star. Unfortunately, his second season has presented challenges, including a hamstring injury that sidelined him during pre-season and caused him to miss both the Club World Cup and the start of the league campaign. Upon recovery, he found himself behind Gonzalo Garcia in the lineup, managing only 11 minutes of action in La Liga, which came during a 4-0 victory over Valencia.

In an interview with Diario AS, coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed his confidence in Endrick, emphasizing his significance as a promising talent from Brazilian football. “He’s a very important player because he’s one of the talents to have come out of Brazilian football,” Ancelotti stated. He clarified that the decision regarding Endrick’s future lay between the player and Real Madrid.

Recent reports from Globo Esporte indicate that Real Madrid has provisionally accepted a proposal from Lyon after extensive negotiations, successfully fending off late interest from Manchester United and Aston Villa. Despite Manchester United attempting to pursue him due to an injury to Benjamin Sesko, Endrick had already made up his mind that Lyon was the ideal destination for him, offering a chance to start regularly, regain his sharpness, and rebuild his confidence.

“It’s important for Endrick to start playing again,” added Ancelotti in an interview with Placar. He emphasized the need for Endrick to discuss his situation with his team and the club to determine the best path forward.

Initially, Real Madrid was inclined to loan him within La Liga to aid his adaptation and maintain continuity in Spanish football, especially with a Spanish passport expected in six months. However, Endrick advocated strongly for a move to France, seeking a fresh start and guaranteed playing time with Lyon. Although coach Xabi Alonso encouraged him to be patient and wait for his opportunity in Madrid, the young forward had different aspirations.

“Of course, I’d like him to have played already,” Alonso acknowledged. “But the situations in our recent matches have been very tight since Endrick returned. I hope he can get those minutes soon. He’s training well, he’s ready, but the right moment has to come.”

Reports suggest that Endrick’s representatives are already scouting for housing in Lyon, indicating that personal terms may have been settled, pending only formalities. Lyon has struggled offensively, with Czech forward Pavel Sulc emerging as their top scorer with just five goals. Coach Paulo Fonseca hopes Endrick’s arrival will enhance their attacking prowess and address their scoring difficulties, as the Brazilian is eager to prove himself, especially with the prospect of a World Cup spot on the line.