Carlo Ancelotti, the head coach of Real Madrid, has issued a subtle but pointed critique of Brazilian prodigy Endrick following the team’s 2-0 victory over Getafe in La Liga on Sunday.
Endrick, who joined Los Blancos last summer amidst significant hype, has struggled for game time since his arrival. Once again, he remained on the bench throughout the match, with Ancelotti opting for minimal rotations. Only two substitutions were made—Arda Güler replacing Jude Bellingham and Luka Modric coming in for Rodrygo. When questioned about his decision, Ancelotti justified it pragmatically, suggesting Endrick needs to improve his work ethic to earn more opportunities.
“He needs to work,” the Italian coach stated. “He didn’t play because Mbappé was a constant threat, and the others were performing well. He will be ready for the next game.”
Since the start of the season, Endrick has been a peripheral figure, making just 12 appearances across all competitions, mostly as a late substitute. He has started only once, during the Champions League clash against Lille, contributing two goals and one assist so far. His absence in Sunday’s match was particularly notable, considering the squad’s visible fatigue. Ancelotti acknowledged the physical toll on the team, saying, “We arrived in Madrid on Thursday at six in the morning after our game against Liverpool and couldn’t train properly, so some physical decline by the end of the match was normal.”
Despite Endrick’s lack of involvement, Real Madrid managed to close the gap on league leaders Barcelona, trailing by just one point with a game in hand. Kylian Mbappé’s goal highlighted the victory, while Ancelotti expressed optimism about the team’s resilience amidst injury challenges. “We’re fighting despite the difficulties,” he said. “We’re addressing issues one step at a time, but until then, we keep battling.”
Endrick’s future at Real Madrid appears uncertain. While his talent is undeniable, his limited playing time under Ancelotti raises questions about his long-term role in the squad. The young forward faces mounting pressure to seize any opportunities that come his way as competition intensifies at the Santiago Bernabéu.
