Endrick's loan spell at Lyon was going better than anyone had expected until Real Madrid's wonderkid was sent off this weekend. The Brazilian was handed a red card in his side's 1-0 away win against Nantes on Saturday.
The 19-year-old has been on fire in France and has bagged five goals and one assist in six games across competitions. There have never been any concerns over his temperament but he saw red in a feisty affair between the Ligue 1 clubs.
Endrick was dismissed for an impulsive challenge that left Lyon with 10 men with 30 minutes left of the game. The visiors saw out a victory which means his side have yet to taste defeat or settle on a draw since the Brazilian arrived from Madrid in early January.
Lyon manager on Endrick's red card
Last night wasn't the first time Endrick has been sent off in his career and is a massive setback for the player and his club. He's been crucial for Lyon and helped them achieve a six-game winning streak.
Paulo Fonseca gave his verdict on the sending off and defended the Brazilian youngster. He suggested the Madrid loanee needs more protection (via Madrid Xtra):
“Look at the last matches, teams start with a lot of aggression towards Endrick. The referees have to pay attention to that, it was the case again vs Nantes. We should protect a talent like Endrick because opponents come for him very aggressively.”
🚨 Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca: “Look at the last matches, teams start with a lot of aggression towards Endrick.
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) February 8, 2026
The referees have to pay attention to that, it was the case again vs Nantes.
We should protect a talent like Endrick because opponents come for him very aggressively.” pic.twitter.com/gnuQRZYQPS
Endrick is fouled 2.0 times per game which does back Fonseca's stance up regarding how the opposition target their forward. His Selecao style of play raises aggression in the opposition and some of their reckless tackles go unpunished.
Carlo Ancelotti set to hand Endrick World Cup chance
Endrick's scintillating form in France has come at just the right time for the Brazilian who will be eager to be on the plane to North America this summer. The World Cup is only four months away and Carlo Ancelotti will be taking charge of the record-holders' campaign in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
According to L'Equipe (via Madrid Xtra), Ancelotti is set to start Endrick in the upcoming international break. Brazil face France on March 26th and Croatia on April 1st.
Endrick has earned 14 caps for Selecao to date, finding the back of the net three times including at Wembley. He isn't guaranteed a place in Ancelotti's squad for the World Cup but if he continues with such impressive exploits at Lyon he surely will be.