Amid the Kylian Mbappe injury scare, could this present a full Real Madrid debut opportunity to summer signing Endrick?
Endrick arrived at Real Madrid in the summer. So far, he has made quite the impression, scoring two goals in all competitions for Los Blancos. Despite his goal-scoring form, he is yet to start a match.
The Brazilian wonderkid has made the most of his chances despite playing limited minutes. He is often introduced to matches late on but he's scored in La Liga and a great solo goal in the Champions League.
This weekend, Real Madrid face one of their most important matches of the season. Los Blancos travel a short distance to face their local rivals Atletico Madrid.
Kylian Mbappe is ruled out of the Madrid derby through injury. So, could Endrick make his full Real Madrid debut this weekend?
Will Endrick make his full Real Madrid debut amid Kylian Mbappe injury?
Carlo Ancelotti finds himself needing to replace Kylian Mbappe for the Madrid derby. Mbappe will definitely miss the match at Atletico Madrid, so Endrick could make his full Real Madrid debut.
🚨⚪️ Real Madrid confirm that Kylian Mbappé suffers an injury to the femoral biceps of his left leg.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 25, 2024
He will be out for the next 3 weeks, set to miss games against Atlético Madrid, Lille and Valladolid. pic.twitter.com/Kb8u7TAPI2
There are many options for Real Madrid, including moving some players into new positions. However, for Carlo Ancelotti, the best option would be a like-for-like replacement, handing Endrick his full debut.
It is a massive game for Endrick to make his first start for Real Madrid. However, if Ancelotti has learnt anything about Endrick so far, it's that the occasion does not faze him.
On his UEFA Champions League debut, Endrick had an opportunity to pass to Vinicius Junior or Kylian Mbappe. Instead, he dribbled with the ball himself and took a shot from outside the box, scoring his first Champions League goal.
So, long story short, confidence is not an issue for Endrick. In fact, he exudes confidence.
Endrick is still working out his best position. The best way to learn, though, is through a process of trial and error. Given Mbappe's injury, he is sure to play an increased role in the Madrid derby.
As pointed out by 90min, Endrick could lead an attack just ahead of Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior. That would put him on quite a pedestal despite still being young.
That said, I am cautious about overanalysing Endrick's age. Yes, he is young and relatively inexperienced compared to other players. However, it doesn't stop him from looking like a senior player whenever he plays.