Endrick Explodes Over Real Madrid's Controversial Shirt Number Snub
There's widespread anticipation that Real Madrid will assign the No. 9 jersey to Gonzalo García, which has allegedly left Endrick unhappy with the club's choice.
The coveted number, previously worn by legends Alfredo Di Stéfano, Karim Benzema and most recently, Kylian Mbappé, is now available at the Santiago Bernabéu. Mbappé took over Luka Modrić's number 10 during the summer, making his No. 9 jersey available for reassignment.
Twelve months ago, Endrick would have been the clear favorite to inherit this prestigious shirt. The Brazilian joined Real Madrid at just 16 years of age and made his way to the Spanish capital two years later amid tremendous expectations.
However, García has now emerged as the leading candidate to wear the number nine jersey in the upcoming season. Spanish reporter Alberto Pereiro suggests Endrick's response to this development was far from positive.
"I was told that Endrick's expression in the dressing room wasn't particularly pleasant," Pereiro revealed on Radio MARCA. "It's a case of making one person happy while disappointing another."
It's hardly shocking that the club allegedly passed over Endrick for this legendary jersey. The young player found it difficult to secure regular playing time during his first season and managed only seven goals across 37 matches.
García, on the other hand, scored four goals in six matches during this summer's FIFA Club World Cup, effectively moving ahead of Endrick in Xabi Alonso's rotation. The Real Madrid Castilla graduate is expected to sign an extended deal with the senior squad and serve as Mbappé's understudy.
The 21-year-old's emergence has created uncertainty around Endrick's future. While there was speculation about a potential sale or loan move, it appears he will remain with Los Blancos for the start of the 2025–26 campaign.
Regarding Endrick's jersey number, he'll continue wearing the No. 16 from last season until he can secure a different, more prestigious number.