Endrick, 19, joined Real Madrid from Palmeiras in July 2024 in a deal reportedly worth 72 million euros including add-ons. During his debut season under Carlo Ancelotti, he featured 37 times, scoring seven goals and providing one assist. However, the arrival of Xabi Alonso as head coach this season limited his opportunities, with the teenager making just three appearances before moving to Ligue 1 on a six-month loan.

The young striker has made an immediate impact at Lyon, scoring five goals and providing one assist in six appearances. He also grabbed headlines with a hat-trick in only his second match, helping the side secure a 5-2 victory at Metz. His early form has fueled speculation that Lyon might pursue a permanent deal.

Endrick's agent, Tiago Freitas, has been quick to dismiss these claims, confirming that the loan contains no option to buy and that the player is expected back at the Bernabeu next season. "Endrick was loaned to Lyon for six months. The decision has already been made and Endrick will return to Real Madrid at the end of the season," Freitas told Win Win.

Freitas defended Endrick's first season in Spain, emphasizing the challenge of breaking into one of the world's most competitive squads. "When he arrived, if you look at the attacking players at Real Madrid, eight of the 10 best in the world were there: Vinícius Junior, Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo - it's completely normal for an 18-year-old to have limited minutes," he said. Freitas added that injuries and missing the pre-season tour further affected his playing time, but insisted Endrick had adapted quickly and showed his potential in early Champions League, league, and cup matches.

Endrick is using his stint in France as a springboard to solidify his place in the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup and prove he can thrive at Real Madrid.

While speculation continues regarding potential moves to the Premier League-with Tottenham and Leeds United reportedly exploring a deal - Freitas is clear that no such transfer is currently being considered.

Off the pitch, Real Madrid faces its own uncertainty about the upcoming transfer window, with reports indicating an extensive managerial shuffle involving Liverpool, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and others. Interim coach Alvaro Arbeloa's tenure is expected to be short-lived, adding to the backdrop of a hectic off-season for the Spanish giants.

For now, Endrick's focus remains on finishing a promising loan spell at Lyon and preparing to fight for a place among Real Madrid's elite attacking ranks next season.

Sandile Khumalo returns to Black Leopards on loan