Endrick's Lyon Loan: World Cup Dream Rekindled?

Endrick's early months of 2026 saw his World Cup aspirations fade due to minimal playing time at Real Madrid, with manager Xabi Alonso favoring other forwards. A loan move to Lyon in January proved transformative, as the 19-year-old rapidly regained his potent form, contributing six goals in his first seven appearances. This impressive turnaround reignited discussions about his potential inclusion in the Brazil squad for the upcoming international break.

Carlo Ancelotti, who previously advised Endrick to seek playing time elsewhere, now has him back in consideration. However, securing a spot for the 2026 North American World Cup remains a significant challenge. Brazil's abundance of attacking talent means Endrick must maintain near-flawless performances to stand out.

Despite failing to meet initial high expectations at Madrid, Endrick did score on his La Liga and Champions League debuts and was a joint-top scorer in the Copa del Rey. However, he saw limited action in crucial matches, including just 35 minutes across the Champions League knockout stages.

Ancelotti previously explained Endrick's limited role, citing competition from Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Kylian Mbappe. By February, Ancelotti acknowledged Endrick's quality but highlighted the need for improvement in ball handling, despite his spectacular shooting ability. Endrick's decision-making and tendency to hold the ball too long disrupted Madrid's play.

Endrick's hopes for an immediate impact under new manager Xabi Alonso were dashed by a hamstring injury at the end of May, ruling him out of the Club World Cup. By his return in September, he had fallen to fifth in the attacking pecking order. Frustrated, Endrick's entourage arranged a loan exit, with Lyon becoming his destination.

Eager to follow in the footsteps of Brazilian compatriots at Lyon and influenced by head coach Paulo Fonseca's Portuguese background, Endrick embraced the move. He expressed no bitterness towards his past situation, emphasizing the personal growth experienced. Endrick immediately made an impact, scoring the winning goal on his debut in the Coupe de France.

His Ligue 1 debut saw him provide an assist and create five chances. He then delivered a stunning hat-trick against Metz, becoming Lyon's youngest player to score three goals in a single game, breaking a 54-year record. His sensational strike in the Coupe de France last-16 further cemented his hero status, earning comparisons to Karim Benzema.

Endrick earned the Ligue 1 Player of the Month award for January and was named Player of the Match three times in seven appearances. However, his momentum was interrupted by a harsh straight red card, later reduced to a one-game suspension after an appeal, for a shirt pull. This served as a warning about maintaining discipline and consistent standards.

Upon his return, Endrick struggled in a 3-1 defeat to Strasbourg, showing 31 touches and losing possession 15 times. Critics noted his lack of defensive contribution and solutions. Despite these inconsistencies, Real Madrid retains him for their future plans, not including a purchase option in the loan deal.

His primary weakness, poor decision-making and a tendency to play selfishly, remains a concern for his World Cup prospects. Playing on the right wing at Lyon, he faces stiff competition from Raphinha, Rodrygo, and Estevao Willian for Brazil. His only realistic chance for a spot is as a No. 9.

Endrick has not represented Brazil since March of last year, with Ancelotti considering numerous other forwards. With only two or three striker spots available, Endrick faces tough competition. However, he has until June 1 to change his situation, with Lyon potentially playing up to 21 more matches.

Fonseca is working to keep Endrick balanced, humble, and responsible, emphasizing the mutual benefit of team performance. If Endrick fully embraces this guidance, Ancelotti may find it impossible to overlook him for the Brazil squad.