Xabi Alonso came in with promises for Endrick, but those promises have clearly not withstood the test of time. Even after recovering long ago, Endrick has yet to gain the manager’s trust. Xabi has other, better options for the centre-forward role, Kylian Mbappe is one, and so is Gonzalo Garcia.
The situation with Endrick is peculiar but not surprising. Even under Carlo Ancelotti, he was largely ignored. He hardly played regularly and could not leave a mark, or rather, could not get enough chances to leave one.
The striker desperately needs minutes to earn a call-up to Brazil’s national team for the 2026 World Cup. He was already in a disadvantaged position when Ancelotti took over the national team, and now he needs to perform miracles to make the shortlist.
With it now clear that he is not getting any trust from Xabi Alonso, at least in the short term before the World Cup, Endrick must seriously consider loan opportunities. Media reports suggest he is already on the lookout for them.
Four potential landing spots for Endrick after Xabi Alonso ostracised him
Here are four of the best options Endrick currently has for the much-needed loan move:
1. Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad were a real option in August before the deal collapsed, but this move could reignite if terms are agreed upon again.
The biggest challenge Endrick has faced at Real Madrid is adapting to Spanish football. While a loan move outside Europe would certainly have its benefits, staying within La Liga would help him adjust to the Spanish style of play more quickly and with less pressure and expectation.
Even though the future of the new manager, Sergio Francisco, who replaced the highly successful Imanol Alguacil, is hanging by a thread, I believe he will stay at least until the end of the season. His tactics are tailor-made for Endrick to succeed.
Francisco has now won his last two La Liga games, taking the team to 14th in the table, and he appears comfortable employing a 4-2-3-1 formation when conditions suit. This setup, with Endrick leading the line, would channel most scoring opportunities through the Brazilian and give him a real chance to shine in the Spanish setup.
2. Villarreal
Villarreal are currently second in the league table and in excellent form, having won eight of their 12 games. According to BeIN Sports, Villarreal have enquired about Endrick’s availability for a loan move, and in my opinion, this could be the most exciting option if it materialises.
Like in the case above, Endrick would stay in La Liga with a top team, an even better one than Real Sociedad. Tactically, Marcelino’s system is not perfectly suited to Endrick but could still benefit him.
Villarreal’s attack relies heavily on runners who exploit horizontal spaces, receiving the ball from holding midfielders and driving it toward goal through pace alone. Endrick fits that profile perfectly, as shown during his days at Palmeiras. The system also demands physically strong attackers who can create space as well as find it. Again, Endrick is well suited for that.
The only downside, which is not too concerning, is that the Yellow Submarine already have established attackers. The Brazilian will need to fight for a breakthrough, but it should not be as difficult as it is at Madrid. And since Villarreal have already made enquiries, it’s clear they would be willing to give him a genuine chance.
3. Olympique de Marseille
Several credible reports suggest that Endrick is strongly considering French side Marseille for a loan move in January next year. This move could provide some much-needed minutes, though I have certain reservations about it.
Marseille are a top French team currently sitting first in the league table. Despite recent struggles in Europe, they look well set to continue their brilliant domestic run and finish the season on a high note. That raises some questions about their interest in Endrick.
Roberto De Zerbi appears content with his attacking options. He doesn’t need major reinforcements, only minor tweaks, and it’s entirely possible that Marseille view Endrick as a depth option rather than a starter. If that’s the case, he could struggle for minutes there as well.
4. Olympique Lyonnais
As revealed by Fabrizio Romano last week, Endrick is prioritising a move to Lyon until the 2026 World Cup and is keen to join the French side despite other offers from different leagues.
Lyon are one of the few clubs where Endrick would be guaranteed regular minutes right from the start. The French club have struggled with goal conversion lately and are looking for a natural centre-forward after George Mikautadze’s departure in August.
Lyon are also competing in the Europa League this season, meaning Endrick could gain valuable experience in European competitions, albeit at a lower tier, to begin his development. He could first impress there, earn a Brazil call-up, and later return to Madrid as a more reliable and complete player.
This move simply makes the most sense.