It’s only a matter of time before Endrick is announced as Lyon’s newest addition. The 19-year-old forward, still struggling to find the space he expected at Real Madrid, is on the verge of swapping the Bernabéu for an opportunity in Ligue 1. The loan deal, set between January and June of 2026, already has draft agreements exchanged between the clubs and verbal terms settled. Although temporary, the move could represent the missing step for him to finally become a main figure and return to Brazil’s national team radar.
Since arriving in Spain, Endrick has lived between expectation and patience. His talent isn’t up for debate, but his time on the field has been scarce. At a club where stars like Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Rodrygo dominate the spotlight, there’s very little room for mistakes. Even Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that the young forward needs more playing time to earn another call-up from Dorival Júnior. And that’s exactly what Lyon promises to provide: minutes, responsibility, and confidence.
A loan that feels like a new beginning
Endrick views the move to France positively. Ligue 1 has been kind to Brazilian players who needed consistency, and Lyon has a strong tradition with them. The team’s lack of goals — their top scorer, Pavel Sulc, has only five this season — creates the perfect stage for the Brazilian to prove what he can really do with rhythm and freedom. Coach Paulo Fonseca, a Portuguese manager with a long history of working with Brazilian players, also makes the move appealing.
Real Madrid, on the other hand, has no plans to part ways with its prized gem. The loan won’t include a purchase option, and contractual clauses allow the club to recall him if needed. Behind the scenes, people close to the forward are already looking for a place to live in France, a clear sign the deal is progressing and should be made official once the transfer window opens in January.
Between patience and frustration among fans
As both clubs wrap up talks for a potential winter transfer, social media is buzzing. Part of Real Madrid’s fan base can’t understand the decision. “We paid 60 million for him just to loan him out?” some complain (the deal was worth around 72 million euros). Others point fingers at Xabi Alonso, criticizing the lack of opportunities. “He’ll be remembered as the coach who never gave Endrick a real chance,” one fan wrote. There are also plenty defending the teenager, reminding everyone that even with limited minutes, he’s scored seven goals and shown flashes of his enormous potential.
Endrick has become the reflection of a broader debate within Real Madrid: why do so many young talents struggle to establish themselves at giant clubs? Is it a confidence issue? Does the weight of the shirt still intimidate? The truth is, few manage to thrive under the constant pressure that comes with wearing white.
In the end, this move to Lyon could be exactly the breather he needs. A loan that feels like a second chance, a moment for the young forward to show what the world has known since his Palmeiras days. If he delivers, he’ll return to Real Madrid stronger, more mature, and ready to prove he’s more than just a promise. Because at some point, the future has to start playing.