Real Madrid has made a bold decision this January. The club has agreed to loan 19-year-old Brazilian striker Endrick to Olympique Lyon for the rest of the season. The move is designed to give him the regular playing time he desperately needs, something he has struggled to find this season under Xabi Alonso.
Endrick made a sensational debut campaign for Real Madrid, scoring seven goals and instantly catching the attention of fans worldwide. However, this season has been very different. With Gonzalo Garcia rising in the pecking order, Endrick has found himself sidelined, making only 11 minutes on the pitch so far.
The decision to loan him to Lyon is a strategic one. Real Madrid wants to keep him in their plans for the 2026 World Cup, allowing him to grow as a player without losing control over his future. Olympique Lyon, led by coach Paulo Fonseca, promises the Brazilian striker vital playing time in Ligue 1.
Endrick’s father, Douglas Sousa, has openly expressed his frustration over his son’s lack of minutes at Real Madrid. After yet another game where Endrick didn’t play, Sousa posted a strong message on social media that drew wide attention.
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“They want to take away your shine,” he wrote. Sousa described the current situation as one of the most difficult periods of Endrick’s young career. He stressed that his son, who is destined to be one of the great stars of football, is being overlooked despite his talent.
This is not the first time Sousa has publicly defended Endrick. A month ago, when the Brazilian had not played since before the Club World Cup, Sousa shared a heartfelt post on social media. He wrote: “I know, my son, how hard you work and how much you dedicate every minute of your day. I know what you are capable of. You are a winner and you are showing everyone that you are a true warrior. Your star will continue to shine, even if some try to dim your light. I believe your future is right there.”
In his latest message, Sousa also referenced a biblical quote from Matthew 23:12: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” This was a clear warning, not just for Endrick but indirectly for those controlling his playing time at Real Madrid.
The message underlined the importance of humility in football. Talent alone is not enough to succeed. Sousa highlighted that those who remain humble, work hard, and understand that the team comes first often grow faster, earn respect, and find opportunities others may miss.
The social media post included a symbolic image of Endrick sitting alone on the Real Madrid bench. The image captured the young striker’s isolation and frustration as he waited for chances that rarely came.
Endrick’s move to Lyon is seen as a fresh start. The club is renowned for developing young talent, and the expectation is that he will gain the experience and confidence needed to return to Madrid stronger than ever.
Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca expressed excitement about the arrival of Endrick. “He is a talented young player with enormous potential,” Fonseca said. “We are looking forward to giving him the minutes he needs and helping him continue his development in Ligue 1.”
For Real Madrid, the loan ensures that Endrick continues to progress without the pressure of sitting on the bench. It is a common strategy for top clubs to loan young stars to competitive leagues to accelerate their growth.
Endrick’s father, Douglas Sousa, is determined to protect his son’s career. His outspoken support highlights the intense scrutiny young talents face at elite clubs. Sousa’s social media posts have sparked debates among fans about whether Real Madrid is handling Endrick fairly.
Many fans sympathize with the Brazilian striker. “He deserves more minutes,” one supporter wrote online. “This loan is the right move. Endrick needs to play, not sit on the bench.”
Despite the challenges, Endrick remains focused. Sources close to the player say he is eager to prove himself in Lyon and show that he belongs among the world’s top football talents.
Real Madrid is carefully monitoring his progress. The club believes that with regular playing time in Ligue 1, Endrick can refine his skills, gain confidence, and be ready to make an impact when he returns to Spain.
This loan also protects Endrick’s value. Playing regularly in a top European league ensures that he continues to develop without stagnating, a risk that could have occurred if he stayed on the bench at Madrid.
Endrick’s teammates have expressed support for him. Many acknowledge his talent and are excited to see him get the opportunities he deserves.
The loan agreement is clear: Lyon has no buy option, ensuring that Real Madrid retains full control over Endrick’s future. This gives Madrid flexibility while also allowing Endrick to gain crucial experience.
The coming months will be decisive for the young Brazilian. Fans, coaches, and even his father are watching closely, hoping that Lyon will be the environment where Endrick flourishes.
If he succeeds, this loan could mark the start of a stellar chapter in his career, paving the way for his potential starring role in the 2026 World Cup and beyond.
