Endrick (foto: Getty Images)
Brazil was eliminated in the Copa America quarter-finals by Uruguay in a penalty shootout, with young star Endrick delivering a notably poor performance, causing concern among Real Madrid fans.
Brazil was eliminated in the Copa America quarter-finals by Uruguay after a penalty shootout, but what is being talked about is the catastrophic performance of young star Endrick.
The new hope of Brazilian football, Endrick, played one of the weakest games in Copa America history. The player, compared to football legends, was invisible in the match against Uruguay.
With Vinicius Junior suspended, Brazil coach Dorival Junior gave the new star Endrick a chance to shine. However, the teenager, who recently joined Real Madrid, had a game to forget.
The soon-to-be 18-year-old forward showed absolutely nothing. The most damning fact is that he had only one accurate pass in the entire match, which was the kick-off at the start of the game.
For the rest of the match, he was invisible. His statistics were devastating, with Uruguayan defenders completely closing down his access to the goal.
Endrick had one shot on goal, one successful dribble out of three attempts, and 24 touches of the ball. Only one of his five passes was accurate.
He also struggled in duels, winning only four out of 14.
Many consider this one of the worst performances at Copa America they have ever seen, certainly raising concerns among Real Madrid fans. The club paid nearly €50 million for this young talent, heralded as the next great striker and having had some brilliant moments in recent months.
However, when opponents pressed him hard and exposed his weaknesses, he was easily stopped. It remains to be seen how Endrick will fare in one of the world's top leagues.
Wearing the Real Madrid jersey is a significant responsibility. Many have come as great hopes and left as complete failures. Endrick would undoubtedly be an expensive flop if he doesn't live up to expectations.
However, it is up to him to prove himself and show that the match against Uruguay was just a bad day at the office.
The young striker will head to Madrid in a few days, where he will officially be presented as a new member of Los Blancos. He can join the team on his 18th birthday, which is on July 21.