Endrick could already have played his last game for Real Madrid this season, with a January loan move to Lyon now close to being wrapped up. The teenage forward has found chances hard to come by under Xabi Alonso and, with the World Cup on the horizon, minutes rather than medals is driving his next move.
Madrid’s Copa del Rey tie against Talavera de la Reina may prove to be a temporary farewell. Endrick started that match but has otherwise been stuck on the fringes, and those around the player accept that staying put was doing little for his development. At 18, he wants games, simple as that.
According to Spanish radio station COPE, Lyon are ready to take the Brazil international on loan from January through to the end of the 2025–26 season. Talks have progressed quickly and the structure of the deal is already agreed, with only the final paperwork left to sort.
Crucially, Real Madrid have insisted on a protection clause. Lyon must play Endrick in at least 25 matches across all competitions or face a financial penalty payable back to the Spanish giants. It is a clear message from Madrid, this loan is about development, not bench warming in Ligue 1.
The numbers explain why the clause was added. Endrick has logged just 99 minutes of football this season, partly due to injury but also fierce competition in Madrid’s attack. He managed 77 minutes against Talavera, plus brief cameos of 11 minutes apiece against Manchester City in the Champions League and Valencia in La Liga. Not enough for a player tipped to lead Brazil’s next generation.
Alonso has publicly praised Endrick’s attitude but opportunities has been limited, with Madrid chasing trophies on all fronts. A loan makes sense for all parties. Lyon get a high profile young striker, Madrid protect their asset, and Endrick finally gets a run of games.
If the move goes through as expected, the focus now shifts to how Lyon use him. Regular starts, pressure football and European nights could accelerate his growth fast. For Real Madrid, it is a calculated gamble, let the kid go, let him play, and hope he comes back sharper, stronger, and ready to compete when the white shirt calls again.
