Xabi Alonso – Foto: OSCAR GONZALEZ FUENTES / Shutterstock.com
Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid’s coach, put an end to speculation about Endrick’s potential departure during a press conference on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, in Madrid, Spain. The statement came ahead of the match against Juventus in the third round of the Champions League group stage, set for Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabéu. The coach dismissed any plans for a loan move for the 18-year-old Brazilian forward, who has yet to play a single minute this season.
Endrick, signed from Palmeiras for €72 million in July 2024, faces stiff competition in the attacking sector. Players like Kylian Mbappé and Gonzalo García hold the primary spots under Alonso, who took charge in June 2025. The young player’s absence is aimed at fostering his development within a star-studded squad.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano reported preliminary talks for a loan in January 2026 to secure more playing time for Endrick ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, Alonso emphasized the need for constant preparation to succeed at the elite level. The approach seeks to balance squad rotation across multiple competitions.
🎙️ @XabiAlonso 🎙️
📺 Rueda de prensa ➡️ RM Play— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) October 21, 2025
Fierce competition in Real Madrid’s attack
The rotation in Real Madrid’s attacking sector intensified under Alonso. Mbappé is a regular starter, logging 450 minutes in six La Liga and Champions League matches.
Gonzalo García has emerged as the primary substitute, with 180 minutes off the bench. Brahim Díaz adds versatility on the wings, totaling 220 minutes.
Despite recovering from a thigh injury in September, Endrick remains an unused substitute. The coach prioritizes experience in key matches, limiting opportunities for youngsters.
Endrick’s journey since joining Madrid
Endrick joined the first team in July 2024 after shining at Palmeiras. Last season, he played 37 matches and scored seven goals, with a standout performance in the Copa del Rey. Under Carlo Ancelotti, the forward had sporadic appearances, including five goals in six Copa del Rey games. The shift to Alonso changed the dynamics, focusing on adapting to the European pace.
A muscle injury in May 2025 halted his momentum, leading to his exclusion from the Club World Cup. Though recovered, he has been training separately and awaits his debut under the new regime.
The club views the Brazilian as a long-term investment, with a contract until 2030. Reports indicate interest from clubs like Olympique de Marseille for a potential European move.
Alonso’s statements on the squad
Alonso highlighted the need for multiple players to be ready during the press conference.
- Competition in attack requires constant readiness for each match.
- Endrick, Gonzalo, and Brahim are part of a rotating group of options.
- Elite football demands a wealth of high-level players.
The Spaniard praised the Brazilian’s potential but emphasized patience in a star-heavy squad. The strategy aims to manage fatigue across La Liga, Champions League, and Copa del Rey.
Market options for the forward
French clubs have been monitoring Endrick’s situation since October. Olympique de Marseille has shown formal interest in a loan. Spanish sides, such as Real Sociedad, inquired about the player last summer. The preference is for European destinations to maintain competitiveness.
Real Madrid rules out a return to Brazil, prioritizing continuous development. January negotiations may include priority buy-back clauses.
Preparation for the 2026 World Cup
Endrick seeks game time to boost his chances with the Brazilian national team. The World Cup is set for June 2026 in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. Without recent minutes, the forward prioritizes regular play for Dorival Júnior’s call-ups. His staff is evaluating options to ensure consistent starts.
Alonso supports gradual development, aligning it with the club’s plans for 2026/2027. The focus remains on full reintegration after any time sidelined.
Real Madrid, with eight Champions League titles, faces a test of squad depth in the upcoming match. Endrick remains in the plans, awaiting the right moment.
