Real Madrid Star Endrick Set for January Loan Exit as World Cup Ambitions Drive Transfer Decision

The football world is buzzing with developments surrounding Real Madrid’s Brazilian prodigy Endrick, who is now actively seeking a loan move in January 2025 to secure the regular playing time that has eluded him at the Santiago Bernabéu. The 19-year-old striker’s representatives are already in talks with multiple clubs across Europe, marking a significant shift in the player’s stance after previously refusing loan offers.

The Current Situation at Real Madrid

Endrick has not played a single minute in La Liga this season, despite recovering from an injury that kept him out since May. Under new manager Xabi Alonso, who took over from Carlo Ancelotti in June 2025, the Brazilian has found himself increasingly marginalized in Real Madrid’s attacking hierarchy.

The striker is currently the only fit outfield player without minutes this season, having been limited to warm-ups in matches against Getafe and Alavés. The emergence of Gonzalo García during the Club World Cup has further complicated Endrick’s path to regular first-team football.

Endrick’s Playing Time Analysis

The stark contrast between last season’s involvement and this season’s complete absence from action has catalyzed the current transfer discussions.

World Cup 2026 Driving Force

The primary driver for the loan is preparation for the 2026 World Cup, with Endrick not being called up to the Brazilian National Team since his injury recovery. The striker is trailing competitors like Richarlison and Pedro for attacking positions in the national team setup.

ESPN sources indicate that Endrick’s lack of involvement in Sunday’s La Liga game at Getafe was “the last straw,” particularly after he was seen visibly frustrated, kicking a water bottle onto the pitch when told he would not be introduced.

Premier League Clubs Circle for January Move

Multiple Premier League clubs have emerged as serious contenders for Endrick’s signature, with financial commitments requiring the borrowing club to cover his wages of around £70,000 per week, plus a sizeable loan fee.

Leading Contenders for Endrick’s Signature

Manchester United are particularly interested, with reports suggesting they could use more depth in the attacking unit, especially if Joshua Zirkzee continues to struggle for opportunities at Old Trafford.

Real Madrid’s Perspective on the Loan

Despite manager Xabi Alonso’s recent comments suggesting “We’re not at that point yet” regarding a loan move, sources close to the club indicate a more flexible stance behind the scenes. Real Madrid plans full reintegration after the loan, aligning Endrick with Alonso’s project for 2026/2027, with talks including priority buyback clauses in case of a permanent transfer.

The club’s previous approach with young talents provides precedent for such moves. The board views loans as a standard tool to avoid stagnation, as seen with Reinier Jesus in 2021, guiding their current decision-making process.

Competition at the Bernabéu

Endrick faces fierce competition in Real Madrid’s attacking sector, with Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Gonzalo García ahead of him in the pecking order. The Brazilian’s situation is complicated by the tactical setup under Alonso, which emphasizes speed and possession, potentially reducing opportunities for bench players.

Real Madrid’s Attacking Depth Chart

1. Kylian Mbappé – Undisputed starter
2. Vinícius Júnior – Key player when fit
3. Gonzalo García – Emerged as preferred backup
4. Endrick – Currently out of favor
5. Brahim Díaz – Versatile option

International Interest Beyond England

While Premier League clubs dominate the headlines, Marseille have emerged as serious contenders, with the French club prepared to make a move in January, and Endrick reportedly open to joining them in search of regular playing time.

Juventus, Real Sociedad, and Valencia are also credited with interest in the Brazilian striker, providing multiple options across Europe’s top leagues.

Financial Implications and Contract Details

Endrick’s contract with Real Madrid runs until 2030, with an annual salary of 4 million euros. The substantial financial commitment required for any loan deal reflects his market value and Real Madrid’s reluctance to let him leave permanently.

Any potential suitor must demonstrate not only financial capability but also a clear pathway to regular first-team football, which will be crucial in Endrick’s decision-making process.

What’s Next for the Brazilian Striker?

According to Fabrizio Romano, Endrick has made a crucial decision to leave Real Madrid in the upcoming January transfer window, though he is not ready to consider a permanent exit and firmly sees his long-term future in the Spanish capital.

The coming weeks will be decisive as clubs formalize their interest and Real Madrid weighs the benefits of allowing their young star to gain valuable experience elsewhere. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, time is of the essence for Endrick to establish himself as a regular starter and secure his place in Brazil’s national team plans.

The January transfer window promises to be pivotal for all parties involved, with Real Madrid’s decision likely to shape not only Endrick’s immediate future but also his long-term development as one of football’s most promising young talents.

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