Coach Xabi Alonso clarified why the young talent Endrick has not played for Real Madrid yet, stating that the 19-year-old forward is prepared but needs to wait for the “appropriate timing” to make an impact.
The young Brazilian talent, Endrick, has not played any minutes for Real Madrid this season despite being fully recovered from injury. Facing questions from the media and fans, Coach Xabi Alonso finally addressed the reasons and reassured that the 19-year-old’s opportunity “will come soon, when the right moment arrives.”
During the press conference ahead of the match between Real Madrid and Valencia, Xabi Alonso was asked numerous questions about the squad, especially regarding Endrick, the young star expected to follow in the footsteps of Vinicius and Rodrygo in Los Blancos’ attack.
“Of course, I want him to play as well. But recently, our matches have been very intense since he returned from injury. I hope Endrick will get some playing time soon. He trains very well and is ready, but the timing has to be right,” Alonso said.
The Spanish coach emphasized that the reason for not giving Endrick a chance is not due to a lack of trust, but because of tactical demands and the stability the team is aiming for.
With Real Madrid fiercely competing in both La Liga and the Champions League, Alonso has to prioritize experience and balance over experimenting with young players.
Endrick joined Real Madrid with high expectations following impressive performances at Palmeiras. However, adapting to the new environment, combined with an early-season injury, has prevented him from fully syncing with the Royal Club’s style of play.
Experts in Spain believe Xabi Alonso is protecting his player, avoiding putting early pressure on the youngster while Real Madrid is in stable form. “Alonso fully understands how intense the pressure is at Bernabeu. He wants Endrick to step onto the field in the best possible condition,” the Marca commented.
While Alonso calls for patience, European media have started rumors about the possibility of Endrick leaving Real Madrid on loan in the upcoming January transfer window. According to sources from France and Brazil, Olympique Lyon is the club showing the strongest interest, ready to offer a loan deal for the 18-year-old until the end of the season.
Initially, Endrick did not want to leave Madrid, but the desire for regular playing time, especially in the year leading up to the 2026 World Cup, might make him reconsider.
From Real Madrid’s side, the club still views Endrick as an important part of their long-term plans, and Xabi Alonso insists he is in no hurry. “He has great potential, and we have full confidence in him. But at Real Madrid, everything must happen at the right time.”