Endrick Opens Up on Possible January Exit After Inspiring Real Madrid's 4-3 Champions League Triumph Over Roma
Endrick Considers Leaving Real Madrid in January Despite Key Role in Champions League Win
Endrick revealed he might leave Real Madrid during the January transfer window, even after coming off the bench to spark a thrilling 4-3 comeback victory against Roma in the Champions League. The young Brazilian forward netted a vital late equalizer in Rome but admitted his future at the club remains uncertain.
Substitute Sparks Dramatic Italian Rally
Thrown on for Vinicius Junior after 58 minutes with Madrid trailing 3-1—goals by Marten de Roon and a Donyell Malen double giving Roma the lead—Endrick turned the momentum around. His header was saved but set up Carlos Espi to score an 83rd-minute lifeline before Endrick himself headed in from Arda Guler’s corner. Antonio Rudiger then sealed a stoppage-time winner, completing the stunning turnaround.
Youth Player Embraces Unexpected Early Call
Before this impactful appearance, the former Palmeiras star had only one competitive match all season. Reflecting on his surprise at being introduced so early, Endrick said: "I’m very happy. It was a tough match. I was on the bench, just thankful to be here. When the coach called me, I was surprised because it was so soon. I hadn’t played here for a long time and I had a lot of hunger. That’s what I brought, and I did well."
He added details about instructions from manager José Mourinho in an interview with TNT Sports Brasil: "He told me to go out and enjoy myself, and to mark their number three. That’s exactly what I did."
Future Remains Open: "If I Have To Leave, I Will"
Following a loan spell with Lyon, Endrick remains contracted with Real Madrid until June 2030. Interest from Serie A clubs like AC Milan and Roma has been reported, but ESPN notes that president Florentino Perez and the board oppose letting him leave prematurely. Mourinho wants to give him more first-team chances.
Speaking about his future and relationship with Mourinho, Endrick shared: "I take it day by day. If I have to leave in January, I’ll leave; if I have to stay, I’ll stay. I will do whatever God puts in my heart. I’m very grateful to Mourinho. He is one of the first coaches who has genuinely spoken to me. I trust him completely. While I’m here, my job isn’t just to play for the manager to win, but for Real Madrid. But because of everything he is doing for me, I’m going to fight for him and for Real."
Mourinho Rules Out Winter Departure
On the eve of the Roma clash, Mourinho dismissed any talk of a January transfer: "Forget it, forget it. Forget any interested clubs. They had better sit down, or they’ll get tired waiting. He is a player I love, with incredible potential. He is very important to us. Anyone interested in him will have a serious fight on their hands with me because I believe he doesn’t need to go out on loan and will achieve tremendous success here."
Opportunity Awaits With Vinicius Suspension
Endrick’s chances to cement a starting spot may improve after Vinicius received a four-match domestic ban following his red card against Villarreal. The 20-year-old could start when Madrid face Sevilla on October 18, then host RB Leipzig in Europe three days later. His goal-scoring instincts will also be crucial in the high-stakes El Clasico against Barcelona on October 24.
