Endrick opens up on Real Madrid future, Xabi Alonso talks and Lyon move: ‘I had to rethink my career’ | OneFootball

Endrick has opened up in detail about one of the most difficult and transformative periods of his young career, discussing his future at Real Madrid, his loan spell in France, conversations with Xabi Alonso, and even his dream of facing Cristiano Ronaldo at the World Cup.

The Brazilian striker, currently on loan at Olympique Lyonnais, made it clear that he still sees his long-term future at Real Madrid despite a complicated first spell in Spain.

Starting off with his ambitions at the Bernabeu, Endrick said, 

“As for Real, I’ve got a contract until 2032 – that’s a long time. I’m going to work hard to have a good season there when I return. 

“The first step has already been taken with this latest call-up. Now comes the second: to keep going strong in the final stretch of the season so that, God willing, I’ll be among the 26.”

Real Madrid tenure and talks with Alonso

The forward also reflected emotionally on the serious injury he suffered during the final stages of last season against Sevilla, an injury that interrupted his progress at a critical moment.

“Professionally speaking, the worst thing for a player is a serious injury. A minor injury that keeps you out for two or three weeks is one thing; an injury that costs you the season is quite another. 

“That one left me a bit shaken. But, on a personal level, I think it was one of the best things that’s ever happened to me, because we were able to become a family, build a shield and grow stronger with God. 

“If you have a good foundation off the pitch, things work out on it.”

After recovering, Endrick attempted to convince former manager Xabi Alonso that he was ready for a bigger role at Real Madrid before eventually deciding to leave on loan.

Recalling those conversations, he explained, “I told Xabi I was ready and he told me I’d be useful. I kept training, training… until I had to rethink my career.”

The Lyon move

Endrick has been a revelation at Lyon. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

The decision to join Lyon was heavily influenced by his wife, who encouraged him to seek greater opportunities rather than remain on the bench.

Explaining that key moment, Endrick revealed, “Gabi said something that really struck a chord with me. 

“She said that there are players who sit on the bench, but as long as they’re earning their money, everything’s fine. 

“And there are others who want more, who are striving for more. And she asked me what it was that I wanted.”

The striker then added, “She kept putting that into my head and I started to reflect on the importance of standing on my own two feet and making things happen.”

Endrick also praised his agent for proposing the move to Lyon at the right time.

“When he spoke of Lyon, we felt something, a path laid out for us. And it was the best choice we made.”

On Paulo Fonseca’s comments

The Brazilian also addressed the recent public criticism from Lyon manager Paulo Fonseca, admitting the comments created confusion within the dressing room.

Endrick will return to Real Madrid next season. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

“It was an unfortunate move, but after training, he called me to talk because it had caused a bad reaction. 

“My teammates were saying: ‘Why didn’t he call you sooner? You help the team. Why say it publicly?’”

He continued, “That’s just the way it is in football; we have to prove ourselves on the pitch. 

“Coaches sometimes have to say certain things; it’s part of the game. But I think responding publicly is worse.”

Endrick also explained how Fonseca has encouraged him to develop tactically by playing in wider positions.

“He knows I’m a ‘number 9’. That’s where I really play, as a more mobile centre-forward. 

“But he always tells me I can perform well as a right winger. And I told him: ‘That’s fine, I just want to be playing and helping my team’.”

Finally, the Brazilian admitted one of his biggest dreams would be facing Cristiano Ronaldo at what could become the Portuguese legend’s final World Cup.

“This will probably be Cristiano’s last World Cup. I hope we come up against each other. He’s my idol; he’s always been an inspiration to me. 

“If we get past Portugal and I get to see him on the pitch, it’ll be another dream come true.”

Source: AS