Real Madrid have unveiled Endrick with the youngster now set for a fresh chapter with the La Liga giants.
Endrick’s unveiling came just days after he officially penned down a lengthy six-year contract with the club. Recall Real Madrid completed a move for Endrick in December 2022 but could not bring him to Santiago Bernabeu since he was yet to clock 18.
Now, amidst over 40,000 Real Madrid fans, the top-rated youngster has been officially unveiled as the new Galactico. Presenting the young baller before the Los Blancos fans, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said;
“Today we welcome one of those footballers who was born to wear this shirt. Dear Endrick, despite your youth you arrive at Real Madrid with an important background.
This moment was what you dreamed of as a child. “That conviction has led you to fulfill a lifetime dream. That dream you had when you were only nine years old with the Real Madrid Foundation.
“Your play and goals already bring fans to their feet and Madrid are delighted to have you as part of the family.”
Endrick was very emotional during the unveiling. He thanked everyone, adding he didn’t expect the mammoth crowd that turned up to grace the event, saying it has always been his dream to play for Real Madrid, donning the colors of the European giants.
He said: “Good afternoon everyone. I want to thank everyone for coming to the Santiago Bernabeu. I’m not going to lie too, I didn’t expect so many people, I didn’t expect all this.
“The fans are crazy. I am very happy because since I was a child I have always been a fan of Real Madrid and today I am going to play for Madrid.
“I’m here, I’m very happy, my family too. This is crazy. I don’t have words to describe what I’m feeling, because I always wanted to be here. I wanted to play for Madrid, it was my dream and today I’ve made it happen. Now let’s say it together. One, two, three, Hala Madrid.”
During the unveiling ceremony, Endrick’s shirt number was revealed. He will wear the club’s No.16 shirt. Some of the club’s most recent names, who donned the number 16 jersey at the club include Hamit Altintop, Borja Mayoral, Lucas Silva, James Rodriguez, and Casemiro. Endrick will be expected to step into the shoes of the legendary footballers as he begins his journey with the La Liga giants.
What are Endrick’s chances at Real Madrid?
Away from the unveiling ceremony at Santiago Bernabeu, the expectations are high for the youngster. The conversation has already shifted to his chances in a star-studded Real Madrid side.
Endrick plays as a forward and has been touted as one of the biggest attacking prospects from Brazil. Brazilian outlets believe he draws a parallel with iconic Brazilian strikers such as Ronaldo Nazario, Pele, and Romario.
The projection is that he could get close to the level of the aforementioned players if he doesn’t surpass them. However, at Santiago Bernabeu, it is likely to be a wild gamble for the young footballer with respect to his chances of securing regular game time.
Real Madrid currently boasts high-profile three forwards – Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, and Rodrygo – who are in pole position to jostle for places in the Los Blancos’ forward line next season.
The likelihood of Endrick breaking through the pecking order is low given the profile of the three listed attackers. As things stand, the youngster is certainly set to be deployed more as a backup forward, playing second fiddle to the trio. However, there is still hope he could cut through the mist in due time with his immense talent.
Endrick Real Madrid transfer, contract and prospects
Palmeiras called Endrick’s transfer to Real Madrid the biggest transfer in Brazilian football history. With taxes and other variables, the total value of the deal was estimated at £79m. Endrick signed a six-year contract with the La Liga giants till 2030.
He was yet to make his national team debut when Palmeiras reached an agreement with Real Madrid for his transfer in December 2022. He made his Brazil national team debut in November 2023, coming on as a substitute in a 2-1 World Cup qualifying defeat to Colombia.
He scored his first international goal against England at Wembley during Brazil’s 1-0 friendly win over the Three Lions. He also found the back of the net in Brazil’s 3-3 draw against Spain at Santiago Bernabeu in the next friendly. His first major international tournament came in Copa America 2024 in the USA, where he made 4 appearances for Brazil, comprising one start with three substitute appearances.
The young footballer is expected to make Los Blancos squad for their USA pre-season tour where they will take on AC Milan, Barcelona, and Chelsea.
