Key Takeaways
- Endrick needs strong performances for Lyon to convince Carlo Ancelotti to include him in Brazil’s World Cup squad.
- The 19-year-old credits Jude Bellingham and Luka Modric for helping him through a difficult period at Real Madrid.
- Endrick and his wife Gabriely are expecting their first child, though he hopes his son or daughter chooses a career outside professional football.
Brazilian teenager Endrick is fighting to secure his spot at the 2026 World Cup as the deadline for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad announcement draws near. The 19-year-old striker has rediscovered his form while on loan at Olympique Lyonnais, yet his journey has been filled with personal struggles, injury fears, and moments of self-doubt.
Earlier this year, Endrick faced what he describes as “a night of doubts” before Brazil’s friendly match against Croatia in Orlando. The pressure mounted after Ancelotti suggested the young forward was a prospect for the future rather than the present tournament. “I prayed a lot that night,” Endrick recalls. “I understood that match could change everything for me.” Despite entering the pitch for only the final 15 minutes with Brazil holding a narrow 1-0 lead, he transformed the game. He won a penalty that Igor Thiago converted and later set up Gabriel Martinelli for the third goal in a 3-1 victory.
Endrick’s recent resurgence follows a challenging period at Real Madrid, where he managed just three appearances in six months before his loan move to France. At Lyon, he has contributed seven goals and seven assists across 18 matches, catching the national team manager’s attention. However, the player admits he previously struggled with mental health and public criticism. “I used to check Twitter immediately after matches,” he confesses. “I wanted people to praise me. Now I ignore social media completely. Football is not a friendly environment.”
The physical setbacks at Madrid also tested his resolve. A serious thigh injury kept him sidelined for three months, triggering fears about his future. “I cried many times in private,” he admits. “You worry about losing your strength or suffering another setback. But I knew I had to continue working.”
During those difficult months, England international Jude Bellingham provided crucial support. “Jude made me feel welcome even though my English was poor,” Endrick explains. “He tried speaking Spanish and offered valuable advice. He is not just a fantastic footballer but a true friend.” Veteran midfielder Luka Modric also left a lasting impression through his professionalism. “At 40 years old, he trained every single day,” Endrick notes. “He gave me tactical guidance and demonstrated what it takes to succeed at the highest level.”
Away from the pitch, Endrick is preparing for fatherhood. His wife Gabriely is due to give birth later this year, though the couple have chosen not to learn the baby’s gender. Surprisingly, the footballer hopes his child pursues a different profession. “I want them to become a doctor or lawyer,” he states. “Football is a tough world. I prefer they live peacefully away from this sport.”
Brazil have not lifted the World Cup trophy since 2002, placing additional pressure on the current generation. With the tournament opener against Morocco scheduled for 13 June, Endrick knows he has limited time to convince Ancelotti. “My priority is helping Brazil at the World Cup,” he concludes. “First, I must perform well in Lyon’s remaining matches. I will give everything to make that dream come true.”