The coach of the Brazilian national team, Carlo Ancelotti, revealed that he had spoken to striker Endrick about his future at Real Madrid. The statement came in a recent interview, highlighting the importance of the 19-year-old player defining his destiny to maintain his chances at the 2026 World Cup. The meeting took place at the beginning of the European season, when Endrick was recovering from injury.
Endrick has played just 11 minutes on the pitch for Real Madrid this season, under the command of Xabi Alonso. Previously, during Ancelotti’s tenure at the Spanish club, the Brazilian played 37 matches and scored seven goals. The lack of opportunities has prevented calls for the national team since March of this year.
The Brazilian team is preparing for friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia in Europe. These games mark the penultimate FIFA date before the final list for the World Cup.
🚨❤️💙 Endrick gives absolute priority to Olympique Lyon move despite reports on Premier League clubs keen.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 7, 2025
He’s tempted by OL opportunity, straight loan until June 2026 as exclusively revealed. pic.twitter.com/0YfFbb6MUr
Endrick’s past at Real Madrid
Endrick arrived at Real Madrid in July 2024, after standing out at Palmeiras. In his first season, he quickly adapted to European football.
The striker scored a goals important in the Copa del Rey, where he was second top scorer with five goals. Ancelotti, then the club’s coach, used him in 840 total minutes.
The muscle injury in his thigh sidelined him for more than three months at the beginning of 2025. Recovered in September, Endrick returned to the bench, but without regular minutes.
Possible loan to Lyon
Lyon, from France, advanced in negotiations to receive Endrick on a six-month loan from January. The agreement would be free, with Real Madrid paying part of the salary of around three million euros per year.
- The French club competes in the Europa League and offers immediate ownership.
- Paulo Fonseca, Lyon coach, spoke directly with the player.
- Endrick prioritizes his European destination to maintain his pace with the national team.
- Other proposals, such as the Premier League, were evaluated but discarded.
Olympique de Lyon has a history with Brazilians, such as Juninho Pernambucano and Bruno Guimarães. This tradition makes it easier for the young center forward to adapt.
Direct advice from Ancelotti
Ancelotti emphasized Endrick’s youth when coaching him. The Italian highlighted that the striker has the potential for multiple World Cups.
He recommended open dialogue with Real Madrid to evaluate options. The priority is to accumulate minutes and display qualities in competition�regular actions.
The coach mentioned injuries as an unpredictable factor in squad formation. Currently, around 18 players are set for the World Cup.
Selection calendar towards the World Cup
The Brazilian team faces Senegal this Saturday, in London, at 1pm Brasília. The game opens the sequence of friendlies in Europe.
The following Tuesday, the team plays against Tunisia, in Lille, France, at 4:30 pm. These clashes serve as tactical tests.
In March 2026, there will be a new FIFA date with matches against France and Croatia. This window could be decisive for returns like Endrick’s.
The final squad for the World Cup will be announced in May 2026, with 26 players. The tournament takes place in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Real chances at the 2026 World Cup
Endrick has played 14 games for the senior national team, with three goals in friendlies. His last match was the defeat to Argentina, in March, in the Qualifiers.
Ancelotti took charge in June 2025 and made four squads without the striker. The absence is due to the initial injury and the low subsequent minute.
The loan to Lyon aims to correct this, focusing on sequences of games. The Brazilian has been training intensely since September to regain shape.
In the offensive sector of the team, competitors such as Vitor Roque and Richarlison occupy vacancies. Endrick needs consistrength to stand out.
Loan history at Real Madrid
Real Madrid uses loans to develop young talents. Recent cases include Arda Guler and Gonzalo García, maintained in plans for 2026.
Endrick follows this line, with the club confident in his return. The board avoids definitive sales to preserve the investment of 60 million euros.
Premier League clubs consulted, but high bids were turned down. The focus remains on continental Europe for technical developments.
Endrick’s staff assesses the long-term career impact. The goal is to balance immediate minutes with prospects at Real Madrid.
