Real Madrid is facing unexpected turbulence following reports that Endrick, their 19-year-old Brazilian wonderkid often hailed as “the next Ronaldo,” is seriously considering leaving the club as soon as the January transfer window opens.
According to reputable journalists Jeremy Cross and Dean Jones, the young forward confided in his agent, saying, “If nothing changes before winter, I’ll have no choice but to leave.”
The news has sent shockwaves through Madrid and beyond. Endrick, signed for a massive €70 million, was meant to represent the future of Los Blancos — a bridge between the club’s glorious past and its next generation of stars.
His arrival had been celebrated as the perfect complement to Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo, with fans dreaming of a devastating Brazilian attacking trio capable of conquering Europe. Yet, those lofty expectations have quickly turned into frustration and disappointment.
Since joining under Xabi Alonso, Endrick has barely stepped foot on the pitch. Despite being listed in multiple matchday squads, he has yet to play a single official minute.
Insiders close to the player reveal he is growing increasingly restless, questioning why he remains sidelined while others with less experience or talent get more opportunities. His representatives reportedly believe Madrid’s handling of him is damaging both his confidence and long-term development.
Among fans, opinions are sharply divided. Some argue that patience is essential and that Alonso is merely easing the youngster in carefully. Others, however, believe that Endrick should leave before his morale collapses entirely.
The debate intensified after a viral post from a prominent Madrid fan account stated: “Endrick will leave Real Madrid in January. He needs minutes to stay in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad.”
That ambition — a place at the 2026 World Cup — appears to be at the heart of the matter. Brazil’s attacking lineup is already crowded with names like Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, Martinelli, and Raphinha. Endrick understands that remaining benched at Madrid could jeopardize his international future.
His growing frustration has alerted several top European clubs. Manchester United, Juventus, Newcastle, and West Ham are reportedly monitoring his situation, with United emerging as the most serious contender.
Under manager Rúben Amorim, United are assembling a young, dynamic squad, and Endrick is viewed as an ideal partner for Benjamin Šeško — and a possible long-term replacement for Joshua Zirkzee should he depart.
Sources cited by The Sunday People even described a potential move as “completely realistic,” confirming that preliminary discussions have already begun.
For United, the transfer would be a low-risk gamble on one of football’s brightest prospects; for Endrick, it could be a lifeline — a chance to play regularly, rediscover form, and keep his World Cup dream alive.
Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso appears unfazed by the growing speculation. When questioned by reporters, he simply replied, “Competition is healthy. Both Gonzalo García and Endrick are ready.”
His calm tone, however, hinted that he intends to maintain his strict selection standards — no player, not even a €70 million prodigy, will receive preferential treatment.
Still, some within Real Madrid fear the club might be mishandling a generational talent. One insider reportedly warned, “We’re wasting a diamond before it’s polished.” Spanish media also claim Manchester United have already contacted Endrick, promising him immediate game time and a central role in Amorim’s project.
In England, fans are buzzing with excitement at the thought of Endrick linking up with Bruno Fernandes and rekindling United’s legacy of developing world-class youngsters — just as they once did with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Back in Madrid, however, the situation reflects a deeper tension. Alonso’s disciplined, results-driven philosophy may be steadying the team, but it could also be suffocating its creative potential.
Endrick’s dissatisfaction might be the first visible crack in Alonso’s reign — a warning that too much rigidity could come at the cost of nurturing brilliance.
If Endrick chooses to leave in January, it won’t just be a transfer story — it will be a statement of intent from a rising star unwilling to let his career stagnate.
His decision could reshape not only his own trajectory but also influence Brazil’s future attacking power heading toward the next World Cup. In football, defining moments often arrive early — and for Endrick, that moment seems to be now.
