Endrick loses grip on Real Madrid spot as Güler takes control

Real Madrid arrived in Cartagena with one name standing out: Endrick. The Brazilian, a €35 million signing (potentially rising to €60 million), hasn’t yet made the impact at Madrid he or the fans had hoped for. In his initial appearances, he showed promise, scoring goals with ease.

Carlo Ancelotti even gave him a starting spot in the Champions League against Lille in France on October 2. However, like the team overall that night, he struggled. Since then, his performances have been inconsistent—sometimes involved, sometimes absent.

That changed in the Copa del Rey, where Endrick returned to the starting eleven in a match that showcased another emerging talent: Arda Güler. The Turkish midfielder celebrated his first anniversary as a Real Madrid player in style. Güler made his debut on January 6, 2024, against Arandina, following months of setbacks from a meniscus tear and subsequent muscle injuries. Even then, he hinted at his potential.

Endrick failed to impress against Deportivo Minera

Madrid’s visit to Murcia was a success both on and off the pitch. A crowd of 14,000 packed the stadium, providing La Minera with a financial boost that will sustain them for years.

In the game, Güler’s progress as a player was unmistakable. In contrast, Endrick exhibited a certain clumsiness in front of goal that seemed incompatible with the role of a reliable scorer. While Güler made a case for more opportunities under Ancelotti, Endrick still has work to do.

A straightforward 5-0 victory came for the LaLiga side, which could have been even more one-sided if not for La Minera’s goalkeeper, Fran Martínez, who made an astounding 17 saves. Among Madrid’s many bright spots, none shone brighter than Güler. His performance went beyond scoring two goals; he displayed the versatility and creativity of a classic all-rounder.

Starting as a right winger, Güler showcased his ability to cut inside and unleash shots, one of which resulted in his first goal. Later, after substitutions, he moved into central midfield—a position he often occupies for Turkey—with similarly promising results.

No Madrid player more involved than Güler

Even when playing on the wing, Güler contributed significantly in midfield, helping transition play and create opportunities. His stats were exceptional: seven recoveries (just two fewer than leader Fran García), 61 completed passes (second-most), 29 final-third passes (most on the team), five chances created, and seven shots, four of which were on target. No Madrid player was more involved, with 95 touches spread across various areas of the pitch.

This season, Güler has earned far more trust from Ancelotti compared to last year. He has already made eight starts and is approaching 800 minutes of game time. Still, there’s a lingering sense that Ancelotti is hesitant to fully embrace him, particularly in midfield, where the Italian believes Güler might lack physical presence.

However, his defensive contribution against Cartagena—seven recoveries and two successful tackles—suggests otherwise. Competition in Madrid’s attack remains fierce, but Güler’s performance in the Copa del Rey, with two goals and constant involvement in the opposition’s box, strengthens his case. With three goals and three assists this season, the ball is now in Ancelotti’s court.

“He has to be patient; the goals will come”

For Endrick, the night in Cartagena was bittersweet. He arrived eager to prove himself but left with mixed results. It wasn’t a bad game—he was active, intense, and even set up a golden chance for Loren, which went begging.

Yet, as a striker, his lack of composure was evident. Early in the match, he squandered a one-on-one opportunity, with his shot saved by Fran Martínez. That pattern persisted, as he struggled to find the back of the net.

In the second half, playing as a winger, Endrick showed more mobility and creativity. His best chance came from a long-range effort, brilliantly saved by Martínez. Despite his lack of goals, Ancelotti praised his performance: “He played a good game.

Scoring is just a bonus. He moved well, created chances, and his positioning behind the attacking line was effective. He lacked precision, but he was very dangerous on the right. He just needs to be patient; the goals will come.”

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Endrick’s numbers were encouraging: 24 final-third passes, nine attempted dribbles (five successful), six shots (five on target), and four chances created. Though his efforts deserved a goal, it wasn’t to be. The question now is when he’ll get his next chance to start. The draw for the next round of the Copa del Rey could play a pivotal role in shaping Endrick’s immediate future at Real Madrid.

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