Real Madrid loanee called out by current manager after major dip in form: ‘Not satisfied with his performance’ | OneFootball

The January loan move that was meant to accelerate Endrick’s development is beginning to take a more complicated turn, with the young striker now facing growing scrutiny at Olympique Lyon.

Initially, the decision to leave Real Madrid on a temporary basis looked like a masterstroke. 

The Brazilian forward wasted no time making an impression, announcing himself with a stunning hat-trick against Metz that immediately raised expectations.

Bright start fading into frustration

However, football moves quickly, and so do the stories. What began as a promising spell has now turned into a period of concern.

Endrick has not scored in Ligue 1 since that explosive performance, enduring an eight-match goal drought. 

While he has contributed three assists during that stretch, his inability to find the net is starting to weigh heavily on both the player and the team.

With pressure mounting, manager Paulo Fonseca did not shy away from addressing Endrick’s dip in form during his pre-match press conference.

“I’m not satisfied with Endrick’s performance,” Fonseca said. 

Endrick has not scored in Ligue 1 since February 25. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

“I’m not here to tear the players apart, but I expect more from a player like Endrick, and I believe he has a duty to perform better.”

Fatigue and adaptation factors at play

Fonseca also pointed to the physical demands placed on the young forward, especially after his recent international duty with Brazil, where he featured against Croatia.

“He said he was a bit tired from the trip. But I think he has a responsibility to perform better.”

Another factor affecting his performances is the way opponents are now approaching him. 

Defenders are paying close attention, limiting his space and forcing him to adjust his movement.

Explaining this tactical challenge, Fonseca added, “Endrick is marked very closely by opponents. 

“He needs to do more to show himself as an option and to get away from his marker. 

“He’s paying the price for having gone a long time without playing before coming to Lyon. What’s more, it’s difficult for him to play three times a week,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo