Brazilian wonderkid Endrick opens up on Real Madrid and Vinícius

The Maracanã has been the stage for many events over the years. And it was the stage for Endrick’s last show on Wednesday night - at the celebration of the ‘Match of the Stars’ - a charity event that has been organised in the country since 2004 and promoted by football legend Zico. This year, Real Madrid’s recent signing (he will officially join in the summer of 2024) was the headline act. And he lived up to expectations, scoring three goals and providing an assist. His night was crowned with a dance in front of the camera that went round the world.

Ancelotti’s praise

“I saw him last year and we spoke a bit. We are happy and excited within the club. In 2024 a major talent will arrive, a huge player,” Ancelotti told a press conference. It was just a few hours after Madrid’s latest signing, 7,700 kilometres away, brought the Maracanã to its feet and, at the same time, made a plea for serenity: “I’m still nobody, so let’s keep our feet on the ground. I have to improve and that’s my motivation,” he said, in a statement in the mixed zone later reported by El Español.

Vinícius key

Endrick, still only 16, knows that he still has a year and a half to go before he is presented at the Santiago Bernabéu and that he must continue to mature at Palmeiras. But it is impossible for him, when pressed, to hide the enthusiasm he has for his future at Madrid. “I think about it and I want to win many titles at Real Madrid”.

He was also asked about Brazilian compatriot Vinícius, and said: “When I was in Madrid, he invited me to spend a few days with him; we trained together and he gave me some advice. It was good to spend that time like that. I think it will be a friendship for many years to come”.

He has already fulfilled one of his dreams: to play at the Maracanã, the iconic Brazilian ground. “I had played in other stadiums, in Sao Januario (Vasco da Gama’s stadium), but being here is an inexplicable emotion. It’s been really nice to play football with these guys. Thank God for playing at the Maracanã, I’ve fulfilled a dream. Being next to Jardel and following the advice of people who played in my position means a lot,” Endrick added.

No South American U20 Championship

A few days ago it was confirmed that Palmeiras have not released him to play in the South American U20 Championship (from 19 January to 12 February) in Colombia. The team from Sao Paulo claim that they have a tough start to the season and they need their teenage forward. In the midst of this, Endrick wanted to make it clear that, as far as he is concerned, he is focused on being ready no matter where he is.

“I’m training hard during the holidays. I will train, eat well and sleep early. For me, there is nothing more important right now than being at my best in matches and avoiding injuries. A player needs to make sacrifices and I will do everything for my family,” said the recent Los Blancos signing. “A huge player,” as Ancelotti put it.