Endrick has decided to continue fighting for his place at Real Madrid despite difficult competition for a starting position under new manager Jose Mourinho and the arrival of striker Carlos Espi.
According to Marca, the Brazil international is attempting to make another first-team breakthrough after circumstances once again appeared to be working against him. Endrick has faced a similar challenge before, having struggled for regular opportunities under Carlo Ancelotti two seasons ago and again last season while playing under Xabi Alonso.
The 19-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Olympique Lyonnais, a move which helped keep open his hopes of representing Brazil at the World Cup. He now wants to remain involved in Real Madrid’s plans and believes he can persuade Mourinho that he deserves a prominent role.
Endrick’s opportunities were already limited during the Club World Cup, where Gonzalo’s emergence became a significant obstacle. Under Ancelotti, however, the forward made a strong impression in the Copa del Rey, finishing the competition as its top scorer.
Gonzalo’s transfer to Fulham has not significantly altered the picture. Real Madrid moved quickly in the transfer market to sign Carlos Espi as a recognised central striker, a decision that sent a clear message to Endrick about the level of competition for places.
Mourinho had approved the move for another forward, underlining the challenge facing the Brazilian. Endrick, though, has shown no inclination to give up. A possible route into the team could be on the right wing, but that position has also become more difficult to secure following the arrival of Yan Diomande.
His position is not expected to be settled within the space of a few days. Endrick wants to continue playing during Real Madrid’s pre-season programme and is convinced that regular involvement will give him the opportunity to change Mourinho’s view.
The forward shortened his holiday so he could return to training with the Portuguese manager as soon as possible. He had only limited time to prepare, but he started Real Madrid’s friendly against Fiorentina and took advantage of his opportunity by scoring.
Mourinho has also publicly congratulated Endrick during some training sessions after the player delivered impressive performances. Those moments have encouraged the Brazilian to believe his efforts are being noticed, even though the competition for attacking places remains intense.
Endrick had not been considering a second consecutive loan spell. His plan was to return to Madrid and compete for a place in Mourinho’s side rather than seek another temporary move elsewhere.
The path to regular football remains difficult unless one of Real Madrid’s established forwards leaves. At present, the only departure regarded as even remotely possiblealthough still considered unlikelywould involve Vinicius Junior.
