Endrick: Bad News for the 18-Year-Old Brazilian Striker

Forced to settle for limited playing time at Real Madrid, Endrick has once again been overlooked by the Brazilian national team. As happened at the end of last year, the 18-year-old striker has been left out of the latest squad list for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

With the first FIFA international break of the year approaching, national team coaches are unveiling their call-ups. While Real Madrid veterans like Luka Modric have been named in Croatia’s squad, and stars like Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo have received their invitations to join Brazil, Endrick has not been so fortunate. Head coach Dorival Junior has opted to exclude him from the squad that will face Colombia on March 21 and Argentina on March 26.

This snub raises further concerns about Endrick’s development. While Éder Militão’s absence is understandable due to his long-term injury, Endrick’s exclusion highlights his struggles at Real Madrid, where he has yet to establish himself as a key player.

Endrick’s lack of playing time at Real Madrid has significantly hampered his chances of making the national team. Despite scoring six goals for Los Blancos in his limited appearances, the young forward has failed to convince Dorival Junior. Instead, the coach has opted to recall Neymar, who has regained form and fitness since rejoining Santos in January.

To regain his place in the Seleção, Endrick will need more minutes on the pitch. However, this could be a difficult task under Carlo Ancelotti, who has been reluctant to give consistent opportunities to younger players. As Real Madrid enters the crucial second half of the season, Endrick’s role remains uncertain.

At just 18 years old, there is still plenty of time for Endrick to break into the Brazilian squad. His performances at Palmeiras showcased his immense potential, but his current situation in Madrid poses a major obstacle to his growth. Unless he starts playing regularly, his dreams of representing Brazil at the 2026 World Cup may be in jeopardy.

Brazil’s squad is packed with attacking talent, making it even more challenging for Endrick to earn a spot. Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo have already cemented their places, while established stars like Neymar and emerging prospects such as Endrick’s former youth rival, Marcos Leonardo, continue to shine.

For Endrick, this international break could have been an opportunity to prove himself at the highest level. Instead, he will be watching from the sidelines as his teammates battle for qualification points. The disappointment of missing out on national team duty will only add to the pressure he is facing at club level.

The upcoming months will be crucial for Endrick’s career. If he continues to struggle for playing time, a potential loan move might become a realistic option. Several European clubs have reportedly expressed interest in signing him on a temporary deal, which could provide him with the minutes he desperately needs.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid remains focused on their Champions League campaign and La Liga title race. With Karim Benzema’s departure and Joselu’s inconsistent form, Endrick was expected to play a more significant role in the attack. However, Ancelotti has often preferred experience over youth, leaving the Brazilian talent frustrated on the bench.

Endrick’s frustration is understandable, but patience will be key. Many young players have had to fight for their place at Real Madrid, and some, like Vinicius Jr., eventually became indispensable members of the squad. Whether Endrick follows the same path or seeks opportunities elsewhere remains to be seen.

Brazil’s decision to exclude him serves as a wake-up call. If he is to become a regular for the national team, he must first establish himself at club level. The next few months will determine whether he rises to the challenge or remains a forgotten talent in Madrid’s crowded attacking lineup.

While fans remain hopeful for Endrick’s breakthrough, time is running out for him to make an impact before the World Cup. If he continues to be overlooked by both Real Madrid and Brazil, serious questions will be raised about his future.

Endrick’s talent is undeniable, but talent alone is not enough. To earn his place among the best, he must prove that he belongs on the biggest stage. The challenge is immense, but the reward could be even greater if he succeeds.