Something’s wrong with Endrick at Real Madrid

Endrick can’t seem to find his place. At least, Xabi can’t. Evidence is clear: six call-ups, zero minutes. He’s the only outfield player—Mendy being the other, still uncapped—yet to make his debut this season. The latest episode highlighted just how delicate his situation is. He got visibly frustrated against Getafe, even without stepping onto the pitch. As Spanish radio show Carrusel Deportivo reported, he kicked a bottle in anger when the fourth and fifth substitutions went to Brahim and Gonzalo instead of him. Endrick remains at zero, and January looms on the horizon.

So far, leaving hasn’t crossed his mind. Not last summer, when multiple teams expressed interest in a loan, and not now. The circumstances are almost identical: Endrick wants to fight for his place, and European clubs are keeping a close watch, waiting to see if he opts to leave during the winter transfer window.

The Taguatinga native has a reputation, and inactivity hasn’t diminished it. Real Madrid’s faith in him remains intact; he is still seen as one of football’s brightest young talents. But while Gonzalo was making headlines at the Club World Cup—Golden Boot included—Endrick was slipping, losing momentum, and struggling to regain his focus.

A hamstring tear sidelined him for four months, stalling his rise as Madrid’s primary striker. Just as he was finding form—seven goals in 847 minutes—disaster struck again on May 18 at the Pizjuán against Sevilla. He gradually lost steam until finally returning to the squad on September 19. Yet, he has not played since. Even the minutes left by Mbappé rarely reach the number 9, going mostly to number 16. Gonzalo has played 76 of the 105 minutes while Endrick sat on the bench, all as the 2026 World Cup inches closer.

Playing time for Brazil is his ultimate dream. He wants to be in the United States, Mexico, and Canada next summer. Ancelotti counts on him—if he plays. That’s the key: so far, he hasn’t. His last goal for the Seleção came on June 9, 2024, against Mexico, following three consecutive matches against England, Spain, and Mexico. Since then, injuries and Madrid’s sidelining have kept him out of action.

Endrick knows the challenge at Madrid is real. Gonzalo has emerged as the preferred choice, even after fully recovering from injury. Xabi skirts the issue of a January exit: “It’s not on my mind, nor has it happened. Endrick and Gonzalo are ready to play in a position with very good competition.”

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The reality remains stark: six call-ups, zero minutes. The winter transfer window could be his only clear path to the World Cup. Endrick has options—but time to act is running out. It’s a moment for reflection, and a crucial one, for the young star.

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