Carlo Ancelotti addresses Endrick’s transfer rumours amid World Cup talk
Real Madrid and Brazil starlet Endrick has been the subject of intense transfer speculation, but head coach Carlo Ancelotti has firmly denied reports suggesting he advised the 19-year-old to leave the Santiago Bernabéu to boost his World Cup hopes.
The rumours surfaced after talks intensified over a possible January loan move to Lyon, with several outlets claiming Ancelotti encouraged Endrick to seek regular game time elsewhere.
Endrick’s arrival at Real Madrid in 2022 was met with huge excitement following his €60 million transfer from Palmeiras. After netting seven goals in his debut season, fans expected him to explode in his second year.
However, injuries and tough competition have limited his progress. A hamstring injury ruled him out of Madrid’s pre-season, including the Club World Cup, and by the time he returned, Xabi Alonso had preferred Gonzalo Garcia in attack.
The result? Just 11 minutes of La Liga football this season — all coming in a 4–0 victory over Valencia.
Speaking with Diario AS, Ancelotti set the record straight:
“He’s a very important player because he’s one of the great talents from Brazilian football. We’re evaluating him, but it’s not true that I said Endrick should leave Real Madrid to go to the World Cup. That’s a matter between Real Madrid and the player.”
The Italian tactician emphasized that the decision will rest with both the player and the club, adding that Endrick’s development remains a long-term project.
“He needs to talk with the club and make the best decision for himself and for Real Madrid,” Ancelotti said.
According to Globo Esporte, Real Madrid have reached an agreement in principle with Lyon for a loan deal. The French club, managed by Paulo Fonseca, reportedly beat interest from Manchester United and Aston Villa to secure the young forward.
For Endrick, Lyon presents a chance to play regularly and rebuild his confidence after a frustrating spell in Spain.
“It’s important for Endrick to start playing again,” Ancelotti told Placar. “He’s fine now and training well. He needs to think with his team about what’s best and decide what suits him.”
Real Madrid initially pushed for a La Liga loan, partly because Endrick is six months away from receiving a Spanish passport, which would help ease foreign-player restrictions.
Despite that, Endrick preferred a move to France, where he would be guaranteed minutes. Alonso reportedly urged him to remain patient, but the teenager wants a clean slate to prove himself.
“Of course, I’d like him to have played already,” Ancelotti admitted. “He’s ready, he’s training well, but the right moment has to come.”
With Lyon preparing to welcome one of Brazil’s brightest young stars, all eyes will be on whether Endrick’s next chapter finally unlocks the potential that made Real Madrid invest so heavily in him.
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