Endrick has had two friendly matches in the United States, both of which were defeats against AC Milan (0-1) and Barcelona (1-2). In these two matches, the 18-year-old Brazilian striker did not score a goal but received very positive evaluations from coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Endrick is evaluated to be ready to become a Galaticos immediately, unlike Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo in their early days joining Los Blancos. Although he is a member of the Brazil national team participating in the 2024 Copa America (which will be on leave until August 2), Endrick wants to play for Real Madrid as early as July 21 (when he turns 18, according to La Liga regulations).
The first training sessions of Endrick in his new jersey, he was closely followed by his senior teammate Antonio Rudiger. Journalists have recorded many times the young Brazilian star fell over on the field after colliding with the German center-back. After each training session like that, when asked by journalists if the "old ghosts" were being too strict with Endrick, Ancelotti just smiled and said: "Rudiger is just welcoming Endrick to the team."
In each small match on the training ground, Endrick scored many goals. He received very enthusiastic support from his senior teammate and fellow countryman Eder Militao. That performance of the 18-year-old striker was very pleasing to the General Director Jose Angel Sanchez.
"There is something special about this young boy. Endrick is very fast, strong in a confined space. In addition, he has good acceleration and agility outside the penalty area. A great player, very rare to see a talent like that" - Ancelotti shared after the match against AC Milan.
In the match against Rossoneri in the United States, although he only played 45 minutes, Endrick coordinated very well with another young talent of Real Madrid, Arda Guler. In the first few days at the new team, when his fellow Brazilians Brazil had not returned after the 2024 Copa America, Endrick was very close to Guler both on and off the pitch. On his personal page, Endrick shared a moment with Guler on the pitch with the status: "Ardazinhooo".
In the El Clasico match in the United States, Endrick played 68 minutes but did not score any goals, even only had one shot off the post. He received many criticisms on social media but was defended by his teammates. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois even compared Endrick to Eden Hazard when both have similar physique and playing style.
"Endrick is a striker but sometimes can play like an attacking midfielder. However, his role on the field is different from Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo" - Ancelotti noted.
In the next season, with the appearance of Kylian Mbappe, Endrick will not often be given a starting position. However, when Joselu leaves the team, the opportunity for the young Brazilian has increased. Endrick has said he wants to win many Champions League titles with Real Madrid in the coming years.
The fans of Los Blancos are placing their hopes and expecting this young talent to be patient to achieve his goals. Endrick cried on his debut day and said Real Madrid is his dream destination. Now, the dream of wearing the jersey has become a reality, but to make it shine even brighter in the future, there are still many journeys to be undertaken.
