What’s Next for Endrick? Real Madrid’s Struggling Brazilian Faces Crucial Decision Ahead of World Cup Dreams

Endrick’s Next Move: Will He Stay at Real Madrid or Seek a Loan to Save World Cup Dream?

Endrick’s move to Real Madrid in December 2022 was met with massive excitement. The Brazilian striker, signed for €47.5 million, was seen as one of the brightest prospects in world football. Having dazzled at Palmeiras, comparisons to Ronaldo and Pelé seemed inevitable, and many expected him to make an immediate impact in Spain.

Yet, just over a year into his Madrid journey, Endrick finds himself at a crossroads. The young forward has struggled for game time, managing just 11 minutes this season under Xabi Alonso. As his dreams of representing Brazil in the 2026 World Cup loom large, the question now is: will Endrick fight for his place at Real Madrid, or will he seek a loan move to rediscover his form?

Endrick’s Struggles at Real Madrid: Few Minutes, Big Expectations

Endrick’s first season at Madrid (2023/24) was a mixed bag. Despite playing in just 37 matches, he managed a respectable return of seven goals, but he still only racked up 847 minutes—less than ten full games. Though he impressed in flashes, he struggled to cement a starting spot.

This season, however, has been even more difficult. A hamstring injury ruled him out for the Club World Cup and the first five games of the campaign. Now fit again, Endrick has barely featured, playing just 11 minutes in a brief cameo against Valencia.

With heavy competition in the attacking ranks, including established stars like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham, opportunities for Endrick have been scarce. Xabi Alonso did offer a glimmer of hope, suggesting that Endrick could challenge for a starting spot soon: “He has a chance to be a starter. He’s training well, and his time will come,” Alonso said.

Yet, despite these comments, it seems unlikely that Endrick will see regular first-team action in the immediate future.

World Cup 2026 Dreams in Jeopardy

For Endrick, the stakes are much higher than just club football. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, he is desperate to secure a place in Brazil’s squad. But with limited minutes at Madrid, it’s hard to see how he can break into Tite’s team.

Endrick’s absence from Brazil’s upcoming international fixtures is a clear sign that his lack of game time at Madrid is impacting his international prospects. If he is to make Brazil’s squad for 2026, he needs to be playing regularly. The longer he sits on the bench at Madrid, the slimmer his chances become.

January Transfer Window: A Loan Move Likely?

The January transfer window is fast approaching, and with it comes a crucial decision for Endrick. Will he stay and try to fight for a place at Madrid, or will he seek a loan move to continue his development?

Multiple top European clubs are reportedly monitoring Endrick’s situation. Chelsea are said to be among the suitors, though no formal offer has yet been made. However, French side Lyon appear to be in pole position to secure his services on loan. With the chance for more first-team football in Ligue 1, Lyon could provide the ideal environment for Endrick to rebuild his confidence and develop as a player.

Real Sociedad and Valencia were also interested in loaning Endrick in the summer but were rejected by Madrid. Despite that, they may revive their interest in January, especially if the player’s situation remains unchanged.

La Liga expert Ivan Fuente suggests that a loan move is now the most likely outcome for the young striker. “Endrick has barely played for Madrid, and that’s unlikely to change soon,” said Fuente. “He had the chance to join Real Sociedad earlier this year, but an injury scuppered that deal. Now, it seems he may accept a loan move in January to get more playing time.”

What’s Next for Endrick?

Endrick’s future at Real Madrid hangs in the balance. Despite his immense talent, the fierce competition at Madrid has left him struggling for minutes, and his World Cup ambitions are at risk.

A loan move seems like the best option to help him get the game time he desperately needs. Whether it’s in Ligue 1 with Lyon, back in Spain with Real Sociedad, or elsewhere, playing regularly will be crucial if he is to fulfill his potential and earn a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad.

As January approaches, it’s clear that Endrick’s career is at a defining moment. He must decide whether to stay and fight for his place or seek a new challenge to continue his development. The next few months will be critical for the young striker’s future.