Jose Mourinho has called on Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti to give Endrick playing time during the next international break after highlighting the striker’s limited opportunities at Real Madrid.
Speaking after Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Valencia at Mestalla, Mourinho said he would welcome Endrick featuring for Brazil, even if the opportunity came away from the Santiago Bernabeu.
“My opinion is clear: I want Endrick to play. If Ancelotti plays him during the next international break, I will be happy,” Mourinho said.
Brazil are scheduled to face Japan in a friendly on 14 November 2026, before Real Madrid return to La Liga action against Celta Vigo on 21 November 2026.
Mourinho’s comments underline Endrick’s restricted role since returning to Real Madrid. The Brazilian has played 141 competitive minutes this season, including 85 minutes in La Liga and 56 in the Champions League.
He has appeared in seven matches, scoring once and providing one assist, but has started only one game. That represents a modest contribution for a player who returned to the Spanish club after rebuilding his confidence and form during a spell in France.
Endrick finished the second half of last season strongly with Olympique Lyon. During his loan spell, he scored eight goals and supplied eight assists in 21 matches, performances which raised expectations about his return to Real Madrid.
The forward appeared to come back with a strong case for a more prominent place in Mourinho’s plans. However, increased competition has made it difficult for him to establish himself in the team.
The arrival of Carlos Espe and the signing of Yan Diomande have further reduced Endrick’s prospects of securing a larger role. Mourinho has several options in attack, while Endrick has been unable to secure a regular place in the rotation.
His situation is a marked contrast to the level he displayed in France. By the closing stages of the summer transfer window, his future at the Santiago Bernabeu was already uncertain.
Roma came close to signing him on loan, but Mourinho intervened to prevent the move and chose to keep the player in his squad. The Portuguese manager also publicly defended Endrick’s ability, saying clubs interested in signing him would have to compete for his signature.
Despite that backing, the lack of regular minutes has revived questions about what comes next for the Brazilian. Media reports have not ruled out a loan move in January if his position does not improve over the coming weeks.
Roma continue to monitor Endrick’s situation closely, while other clubs have also been linked with the forward.
