Inter Miami target Luis Suárez wanted Endrick to sign for Barcelona, not Real Madrid

The Brasileirão, the top division in Brazil, ended in dramatic fashion on Wednesday, with a couple of big names grabbing the headlines. Future Real Madrid star Endrick’s first-half goal in the draw against Cruzeiro ultimately secured the league title for Palmeiras, while rumoured Inter Miami signing Luis Súarez said his goodbyes to Gremio with two goals against Copa Libertadores winners Fluminense. On Thursday, the attacking duo were full of praise for one another at ESPN’s Bola de Prata awards.

Suárez: “Incredible” Endrick “already a star”

The stand-out phrase came from the Uruguayan, who admitted he had hoped the 17-year-old would end up at one of his former clubs rather than their bitter rivals: “Obviously, I wanted Endrick to join Barcelona, but he is the one who has to decide and enjoy his soccer. And the world of soccer will enjoy him.”

Suárez, 19 years the Brazilian’s senior, had more kind words for the youngster: “He is already a star. He’s still very young, taking his first steps. But I think what he’s achieved this year is incredible. He’ll be a star for Brazil, Real Madrid and of soccer for many years to come.”

Endrick learning from Suárez

Endrick had previously spoken of his admiration for his counterpart, who is expected to link back up with former Barça teammate Lionel Messi at Inter Miami: “He’s a player that I only saw in video games, I saw him a lot at Barcelona. I really like his goal against PSG, the way he goes past Thiago Silva and David Luiz before scoring. I’ve been able to see Suárez play a lot. There are things I can learn from him. It’s been great to see him come to Brazil and stand out. He is a fantastic player, I hope he still has a good career ahead of him. And, when I can, I’d like to see him play more often.”