Mourinho's Forward Signing Complicates Endrick's Real Madrid Future Again

The arrival of Carlos Espí at Real Madrid, a forward signed at José Mourinho's request, casts a shadow of uncertainty over Endrick's future at the Santiago Bernabéu. The young Brazilian, who even cut his vacation short to fight for a spot in the squad, now sees his playing time potentially diminished.

Espí's signing, a 1.94-meter tall striker from Levante, was a swift operation costing 25 million euros. Endrick's situation seemed to improve with Gonzalo García's imminent departure to Arbeloa's Fulham, which, in theory, would have made him the primary alternative to Mbappé up front. However, that hope was fleeting, as reported by Marca, with the club quickly securing the Valencian forward, who signed a contract until 2031.

The impact was immediate. Carlos Espí trained at Valdebebas this Friday and was even called up for the pre-season friendly against Fiorentina, as was Endrick. One arrives as an exciting new prospect, while the other sees his path at the club become complicated once more.

In December 2025, a similar situation led to Endrick being loaned to Paulo Fonseca's Lyon. In France, over six months, Endrick gained valuable minutes and confidence, primarily playing as a right winger – scoring eight goals in 21 appearances.

However, the possibility of reinventing himself on the wing now also appears to be exhausted. Real Madrid boasts several strong options for that position, including the future arrival of Yan Diomande, the presence of Vinícius Júnior and Brahim, Rodrygo's return from injury, and even Valverde's adaptation to that flank. The offensive landscape, from any perspective, offers few opportunities for the young player.

Signed in 2024 from Abel Ferreira's Palmeiras, he made 37 appearances under Carlo Ancelotti in 2024/25, scoring seven goals, with only seven starts. He then played just three games under Xabi Alonso in the first half of last season before moving to Lyon. The player is under contract until 2030.