Endrick credits Bellingham and Alexander-Arnold for support during Real Madrid struggles
Brazil international Endrick has revealed that Real Madrid teammates Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold provided essential emotional support during his difficult first season at the club, calling him daily even as he struggled for playing time. In an interview with Men in Blazers on YouTube, the 19-year-old striker opened up about his transition to European football and his loan spell at Lyon that ultimately earned him a spot in Brazil's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
"Bellingham calls me every day. When I was struggling, he would come over and we would talk. He helped me a lot. Trent as well," Endrick said. "They're very close and approachable players. I try to learn from them, including English, but it's impossible to understand them."
The forward also credited his childhood idol Cristiano Ronaldo for inspiring his move to Madrid. "When Real Madrid calls you and makes you an offer, it's impossible to say no. My childhood idol was Cristiano Ronaldo. When he signed for Madrid, it made me dream even more about playing there."
From Madrid bench to World Cup roster: Endrick's loan gamble pays off
Endrick's path to the World Cup was far from straightforward. After joining Real Madrid from Palmeiras in 2024, the teenage prodigy found minutes hard to come by in Carlo Ancelotti's star-studded attack featuring Luka Modric, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo. "The first year is difficult. You arrive at a team with players like Modric, Vinicius and Rodrygo. It's very hard to play when you have all of them around you, but you also learn so much," he explained.
Rather than wait on the bench, Endrick made the bold decision to go on loan to Lyon in January 2026. "It wasn't difficult to go to Lyon. God told me I had to go, and I went. I wasn't afraid. It has been one of the best decisions of my life," he said. "I needed to play. I've been able to score goals, provide assists and play a lot of minutes."
The loan spell proved transformative. Endrick rediscovered his scoring touch in Ligue 1, and his performances convinced Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti — who also coaches him at club level — to include him in the Seleção's 26-man World Cup squad. Brazil are aiming to end a 24-year wait for a sixth star above their badge, a drought that has weighed heavily on the nation.
Casemiro incident shows competitive edge in Brazil camp
Brazil's World Cup preparation has not been without friction. A training-ground incident involving veteran midfielder Casemiro and Endrick made headlines when a heavy tackle was captured on video and went viral. Many fans criticized Casemiro for risking injury to the young forward just before the tournament. However, both players have since downplayed the incident. They were seen walking into training together, chatting and joking, indicating that the moment was part of a competitive session rather than a personal issue.
Brazil's final warm-up against Egypt in Cleveland
Brazil face Egypt in their last friendly before the World Cup, taking the pitch in Cleveland on June 6. Ancelotti has been experimenting with his lineup, testing changes from the side that thrashed Panama 6-2 at the Maracanã. Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães were paired in defense, while Douglas Santos got a look at left back. In attack, Raphinha, Vinicius Junior, and Igor Thiago are expected to feature alongside Endrick, who has been integrated into the first-team setup after his loan spell.
Brazil will open their World Cup campaign in Group C against Morocco, with matches against other group opponents to follow. The Seleção are one of the tournament favorites, and Endrick's resurgence has added depth to an already formidable attacking line.
What Endrick's rise means for Real Madrid and Brazil's future
Endrick's successful loan at Lyon and subsequent World Cup call-up have significant implications for both club and country. For Real Madrid, the 19-year-old's development represents a major asset. He is under contract at the Bernabéu until 2030 and will return this summer with valuable experience and renewed confidence. His ability to thrive under pressure and adapt to different leagues — from the Brazilian Serie A to La Liga and now Ligue 1 — bodes well for his long-term future in Madrid's plans.
For Brazil, Endrick represents the next generation of attacking talent. With Neymar approaching the twilight of his international career, the emergence of Endrick alongside established stars like Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo signals a smooth transition. The camaraderie he has built with European teammates like Bellingham and Alexander-Arnold also reflects a broader trend of young global stars forming close bonds across club and national team lines.
As the World Cup approaches, Endrick's story — from struggling for minutes at Madrid to becoming a key figure in Brazil's plans — mirrors the tournament's themes of resilience and redemption. Whether he plays a starring role or a supporting one, his journey has already captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
Brazil's first Group C match against Morocco will be closely watched, not least by Real Madrid fans eager to see how their loaned-out prodigy performs on the biggest stage. For now, Endrick is just grateful for the chance. "Playing in a World Cup is the greatest thing. Being able to represent my country is a dream," he said.
For more World Cup coverage, read our preview of USA vs Germany: USMNT Faces Final World Cup Test in Chicago Friendly and analysis of Argentina Reclaims No. 1 FIFA Ranking, but History Sends a Warning About World Cup Hopes.
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