Xabi Alonso has publicly addressed the growing frustration surrounding Endrick's lack of game time at Real Madrid, urging the 19-year-old to wait for his chance at the Spanish club. The young Brazilian, who is yet to feature under the new coach, is the subject of January transfer rumours as Los Blancos' established stars continue to perform.
Endrick warned he must be 'patient'
The Brazilian wonderkid was once again an unused substitute as Madrid beat Juventus 1-0 in the Champions League on Wednesday, continuing his wait for a first appearance in any competition under the new coach.
Speaking directly on Endrick's situation, Alonso acknowledged the forward's desire to play but pointed to the intense competition for places at the Santiago Bernabeu. The manager stressed that the teenager must be ready to seize his opportunity when it eventually arrives.
"It's clear everyone wants to play. And a young player even more so," Alonso said to . "Given the context, we want to compete right now, and it's difficult depending on the match. He has to be patient, be prepared, and know that he's at Real Madrid. His time will come."
That context has been unforgiving for the young centre-forward. Real Madrid have a perfect nine points from three matches and sit top of La Liga, with little room for rotation in high-stakes matches.
AdvertisementMounting frustration?
Endrick's frustration at Real Madrid has reportedly reached a boiling point, with the 19-year-old now "open to leaving" on loan in January. The Brazilian, who has not played a single minute in the 2025-26 season under Alonso, saw his integration hampered by an ill-timed hamstring injury and a subsequent relapse that cost him four months and a place in the Club World Cup. According to Fabrizio Romano, the planned move is "only a loan" with "no intention" of a permanent transfer, as Endrick's primary goal is to secure game time to make Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup. While numerous clubs, including Manchester United and Marseille, are linked, it has been reported that Real Sociedad are the "favourites" due to Real Madrid's preference for him to gain La Liga experience. Endrick's father has also fuelled speculation by suggesting his former club Palmeiras "should make an offer."
Madrid dig deep to secure European win
The 1-0 victory over Juventus was a game of perseverance. Real Madrid dominated possession with 66 per cent and registered 26 total shots, but found a resilient opponent and were grateful for their defensive leaders.
Alonso admitted his side struggled to find the knockout blow, saying: "We had more of the ball and increased the pace. It allowed us to create chances… We couldn't kill him off, but we're leaving with three points. Courtois was also very good. Let's keep going."
The manager also praised Eder Militao, who has returned to form after his own injury struggles, highlighting one moment of defensive jeopardy. "That play… As a spectator, it was a spectacle. I was praying he wouldn't get sent off, and then there was Thibaut… for everyone, having Militao back at this level is tremendous news."
AFPWhat next for Endrick?
With every match he remains on the bench, speculation over a January loan for Endrick intensifies. The forward is reportedly keen to secure playing time to stake his claim for a place in Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad.
However, Alonso’s public stance remains firm: Endrick is part of the plan, but must wait for an opening. That opening seems unlikely to come this weekend, as Real Madrid face their most significant match of the domestic season.
"We're doing well, let's see this week," Alonso said, looking ahead. "It's the Clasico, it means a lot… We're playing against Barca, and it has a significant impact on the standings. We're going to prepare well."
For Endrick, the message is clear: breaking into a winning Real Madrid side, especially ahead of El Clasico, will require the patience his manager has demanded.
