Ancelotti hails Real Madrid forward as the ‘future of the Brazil national team’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid made a big decision with teenage forward Endrick, letting him leave on loan in the January transfer window as he joined Olympique Lyon on a short-term deal.

The move has worked wonders for the 19-year-old striker, who has benefitted from playing regularly in France, showcasing his innate talent and abilities.

In 14 matches with his temporary club, Endrick has already managed six goals and five assists in all competitions.

Endrick – the future of Brazil

This form earned Endrick a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil national team squad in the ongoing international break.

Endrick did not get any minutes against France last week but will be hoping to get a run-out when the Selecao face Croatia on Tuesday night.

This could end up being his last big opportunity to secure a spot in the Brazil squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

And, Ancelotti, when asked if the 19-year-old Real Madrid loanee can make the cut for the World Cup during his press conference today, replied:

“Look, I knew Endrick as a striker and centre-forward, and now he’s playing more out wide, doing well there too – a position that demands more defensive work. But given his age and physique, he’s rising to the challenge; he’s capable of it.”

Endrick has done well at Lyon. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

Continuing, the Brazil head coach added: “We’re keeping a close eye on his development; like many others, he’ll undoubtedly be the future of the national team.”

Ancelotti on Vinicius, Modric

Ancelotti also allayed any fears surrounding Vinicius Jr.’s future after he had not trained with the team over the weekend, confirming that the Real Madrid superstar will play against Croatia.

Going a step further, the Italian legend hailed Vinicius and fellow Brazil winger Raphinha as two of the best players in the world.

“Madrid is Madrid, and Brazil is Brazil; with Raphinha and Vini we have two of the best in the world. In fact, Vini is playing tomorrow, and they’ll be two of the best at the World Cup,” said Ancelotti.

“We need to ensure they bring all the quality they’re currently showing to the team, but I know they’ll do well because of their character and personality; they’ll have a great World Cup.”

Tomorrow’s friendly will also pit Ancelotti & co. against Real Madrid legend and Croatia captain Luka Modric. And the Brazil boss sang praises of the veteran AC Milan midfielder, saying:

“Modric? He can play as an attacking midfielder, a deep-lying playmaker, or a No. 8 like he did at Real Madrid; he can do everything in midfield because he’s a complete, modern midfielder.

“One of the best players I’ve ever coached, a spectacular professional with a tremendous passion for football, which is why, at 40, he’s still one of the best midfielders around.”

“Modric is one of a kind; there’s no one else like him on the world stage,” Ancelotti concluded.

Source: MARCA