Endrick (foto: Getty Images)
Young Brazilian striker Endrick has yet to feature under Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid and could be sent on loan in January, with Lyon reportedly showing strong interest.
Endrick is facing a difficult spell at Real Madrid as new coach Xabi Alonso appears reluctant to give him playing time. The 19-year-old Brazilian forward, once hailed as one of world football’s brightest young talents, has not featured at all this season and may now be heading for a winter loan move.
Despite high expectations following his much-anticipated arrival from Palmeiras, Endrick has been an unused substitute in Real Madrid’s last six La Liga matches. Sources close to the club suggest that Alonso has yet to be convinced by the youngster’s readiness to contribute at the top level, especially following a series of minor injury setbacks earlier in the campaign.
According to multiple reports in Spain and France, Lyon have already made contact with Real Madrid about a potential loan deal ahead of the January transfer window. The French club, currently fourth in Ligue 1 and just two points behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain, are eager to strengthen their attack with a young and dynamic forward.
Endrick joined Real Madrid amid great fanfare, with comparisons drawn to Brazilian icons like Ronaldo Nazário and Vinícius Júnior. However, adapting to European football has proven challenging. In 37 appearances for Los Blancos so far, he has managed just seven goals, and his influence has waned since Alonso’s arrival in June.
While Alonso’s decision to leave Endrick out has raised eyebrows among fans, club insiders suggest the coach wants the teenager to develop further through regular minutes elsewhere before competing for a starting place at the Santiago Bernabéu.
With January fast approaching, all signs point toward a loan move that could offer Endrick the chance to rebuild confidence and form — and to remind Madrid why he was once seen as their next great attacking hope.