The 20-year-old Brazilian striker had a loan move to Roma close to completion last transfer window, but stayed at Real Madrid after Jose Mourinho urged him to remain and fight for his place.

Endrick accepted the challenge because his priority remains establishing himself at the Spanish giants. However, his opportunities have been extremely limited.

He has played just four minutes in La Liga this season, coming against Elche. A muscle injury suffered during pre-season delayed his start, but even after returning to fitness, Endrick has struggled to find a regular place in the squad.

Kylian Mbappe continues to dominate the attacking minutes, while the emergence of Carlos Espi has added further competition.

Espi has made an impact with late goals against Espanyol and Elche, strengthening his position in the squad. Endrick, meanwhile, is once again having to wait for his chance.

That situation has prompted fresh questions over whether another loan move would be better for his development.

Endrick has at least been given more responsibility with Brazil during the international break. Carlo Ancelotti used him for 110 minutes across two matches against Australia. He had a goal ruled out in the first game before providing an assist in the second.

The difference in playing time has highlighted the problem Endrick faces at club level.

A similar situation last season eventually led to a loan move to Lyon, where he found the regular football he needed. He played 21 matches during the second half of the campaign, scoring eight goals and providing five assists.

That spell helped restore his confidence and put him back into contention for Brazil.

Roma are now reportedly considering another attempt to sign Endrick in January. The Italian club came close to completing a deal last European summer, and his lack of opportunities at Real Madrid could reopen the door.

Endrick's priority is still to succeed at Real Madrid, but he also understands that his development depends on playing regularly.

Real Madrid play next against Villarreal in La Liga on Saturday, October 10 at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid.

Steve Barker backs Iqraam Rayners to earn Bafana Bafana call-up