Real Madrid have a week to do the funniest thing after sacking Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso's sacking has left the footballing world in shock and he leaves Real Madrid with a 70.6% win percentage, the joint-fifth best of any manager in the club's history. But Los Blancos' decision runs deeper than just the 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Supercopa de Espana final.

There is talk of Madrid president Florentino Perez not liking Alonso's style of football or his training sessions. Some of the players were also at odds with the Spaniard and his handling of Vinicius Junior particularly caused debate among fans.

But Vincius wasn't the only member of Alonso's squad who grew impatient during his short-lived reign. He also never felt convinced by one of the Brazilian's compatriots who has been given a new lease of life elsewhere.

Alonso's lack of faith

Alonso didn't seem to be a fan of Endrick who started the season out injured with a thigh problem. Once the 19-year-old returned to full fitness he wasn't a starter nor was he rarely even given a chance to impress off the bench.

Endrick made just three appearances in all competitions under Alonso, amounting to 99 minutes of game time. He claimed that the lack of opportunities was down to timing rather than trust but it was
clear he didn't believe in the Brazilian starlet.

Lyon came calling on the very first day of the January transfer window, swooping for the former Palmeiras teenage on loan until the end of the season. On the same night Alonso's Madrid lost to Barca in the Supercopa final, Endrick was scoring on his debut in a 2-1 win over Lille in the Coupe de France.

Endrick played with a smile that night, something that hadn't happened during his time at the Bernabeu. He looks to have regained confidence and that's crucial for himself and Brazil ahead of this summer's World Cup.

Madrid have option to perform u-turn

Endrick has only appeared once for Lyon since moving on loan to the French side but he could be back at Madrid within the next week. That's if the La Liga giants opt to bring him back due to a clause in the loan deal between the two clubs.

Fabrizio Romano (via Madrid Xtra) revealed that Los Blancos have the option to recall Endrick by January 20th. It doesn't seem likely they will take this up given Kylian Mbappe has recovered from a knee sprain and Gonzalo Garcia has fared well while filling in for Mbappe.

But the mere thought of Endrick turning his phone on and reading that he has to pack his bags and head back to the Spanish capital is quite humorous. He might relish the opportunity though given he'd be playing under Alonso's temporary replacement Alvaro Arbeloa who was appointed as caretaker manager for the time being.