Lyon’s Endrick: A Rising Talent and Lessons Learned

omidbasir- Nice travels to Parc OL seeking to improve upon a disappointing record of just one victory in their last four matches. However, this task is likely to be challenging as they face a resurgent Lyon squad, which aims to narrow the gap to defending champions PSG by six points and league leaders Lens by seven with a win tonight.

Lyon demonstrated resilience in their previous match, fending off a determined Nantes side that was striving for points to enhance their survival chances. Despite the pressure, coach Fonseca’s team succeeded in securing a crucial victory.

In a notable incident, Endrick was initially issued a straight red card after a VAR review, following two yellow cards for a foul on Dehmaine Tabibou. However, after reviewing the footage and considering the referee’s recommendation, the red card was downgraded to a second yellow, resulting in a one-match ban. Consequently, Endrick will be eligible for the upcoming match against Strasbourg.

Fonseca came to the defense of Endrick, acknowledging the need for him to learn from this episode. He described the initial red card as “very harsh” and pointed out the ongoing aggression from opponents toward the young striker. “The Nantes player did not aim to play the ball; his intention was to obstruct Endrick,” Fonseca remarked.

Fonseca highlighted that this marks the third consecutive match in which opponents have displayed excessive aggression towards Endrick, expressing concern over the potential for intimidation. “Referees must safeguard the talents of players like Endrick.”

While recognizing that the red card was unwarranted, Fonseca emphasized that this incident should serve as a learning opportunity for Endrick, stating, “He must grasp that he is now under the spotlight of everyone involved.”

Endrick has made a strong impression since joining Lyon, scoring three goals and providing one assist since his arrival from Real Madrid in January. His performance has earned him the January Player of the Month award, surpassing competition from Marseille’s Mason Greenwood and teammate Pavel Sulc.

Before making the move to Lyon, Endrick consulted with former players Lucas Paqueta and Bruno Guimaraes about the club. Paqueta, who joined Lyon from AC Milan in 2020, later transferred to West Ham and then Flamengo. Guimaraes, who also joined Lyon in 2020 from Athletico Paranaense, has since established himself as one of the top midfielders globally after moving to Newcastle in 2022.

Endrick expressed his appreciation for the guidance from his compatriots, stating, “I know many Brazilians have excelled at this club. Before arriving, I spoke with Paqueta and Bruno, and they assured me it was a place where I could thrive.”

Moreover, Endrick spoke with Brazil’s national coach Carlo Ancelotti before finalizing his decision to join Lyon. “We had a fantastic conversation, and he offered me advice that has resonated with me. Now, I need to focus on my development to improve as a player,” he added.

Endrick is anticipated to reclaim his position in the Lyon starting lineup for the upcoming match against Strasbourg as Lyon aims to disrupt the Ligue 1 title race. Following their encounters with Nice and Strasbourg, Lyon will face Marseille, who have struggled in recent weeks.