Former Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has urged patience over Los Blancos talent Endrick. The young Brazilian was brought to the Bernabeu with huge expectations as a young player, but he struggled to impress during his first season in Europe.
The 19-year-old was then sent on loan to Olympique Lyon where he enjoyed a much better campaign, scoring eight and assisting as many in France.
That earned him a call-up to the Brazil World Cup squad, despite his youthful age, and that might not come as a surprise to Real Madrid fans, given Ancelotti has issued plenty of praise for the young attacker in the past.
Ancelotti backs Endrick to fulfil potential
Speaking in his latest press conference at the World Cup, Brazil boss Ancelotti said: "Matheus Cunha has more quality in the attacking midfield role than the nine, compared to Igor Thiago, who is more of a reference, aggressive and strong on the ball.
"Endrick is not one or the other. He is another thing. Endreick has absurd talent. Brazil will make the most of it at this World Cup and the next one. He is patient, very mature for his age and that's very important. His close family are also patient, which is a very important aspect for a young player. I will put Endrick in the right moment. He will be important."
Endrick already has 17 Brazil caps, which is remarkable for his age, still only 19. But it is likely he plays a supplementary role at this World Cup, likely to be played when Brazil need something different to open up the game.
He was not used during the opening game with Morocco, which may show how far down the list he is for Ancelotti, but the former Los Blancos boss is promising to use him, and the use of the whole squad will be important in this World Cup due to the travel and time zone changes.
Mourinho will have to answer Endrick question
When Endrick does return from the World Cup, it will be interesting to see what Jose Mourinho makes of the youngster. The returning Los Blancos boss will need to decide whether Endrick can play a part in the coming season or whether he is better off continuing his development out on loan.
Given his age, the young attacker needs to be playing regular football, so a loan deal will be the better option if Mourinho can't promise regular football. While there are doubts over Endrick reaching his full potential, there is indeed still so much potential, and the last thing Los Blancos want is for that talent not to be maximised due to a lack of minutes and confidence.
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