Real Madrid Could Miss Out on Endrick Loan Fee in Shocking Financial Twist—Report
Real Madrid might waive the loan fee for Endrick entirely as part of the arrangement that brought the young forward to Lyon for the rest of the 2025–26 campaign.
Following only 99 minutes of action for Los Blancos during the season's first half, Endrick's temporary switch to France was confirmed just two days prior to Christmas. The deal includes a €1 million ($1.2 million) loan fee, with both clubs sharing his wages equally.
Reports suggesting Lyon must field Endrick in 25 matches or face financial consequences have been dismissed by the club. CEO Michael Gerlinger emphasized "there is nothing more in the contract" that would penalize them beyond the "maximum loan price."
Nevertheless, there appears to be a more sophisticated provision in the agreement that benefits both parties.
The Athletic reports that Lyon will receive a €200,000 reduction from the original fee for every five starts Endrick makes. Collectively, 25 starts would eliminate the entire €1 million fee.
This arrangement structure clearly motivates Lyon to provide Endrick with maximum playing opportunities to reduce their expenses—while avoiding penalties if they don't. It's also something Real Madrid willingly accepts if it ensures the Brazilian gets substantial playing time—match experience is vital for his growth at this career stage and serves their long-term objectives.
Why Endrick's Lyon Debut Was Delayed
Endrick himself expressed confusion about why he couldn't make his Lyon debut against Monaco in Ligue 1 on Saturday, having to wait until the Coupe de France round of 32 match against Lille this upcoming Sunday instead.
This stems from a French regulation requiring players to wait four days after a transfer's completion—Endrick was officially registered on Jan. 1 when the transfer window opened and couldn't be eligible to face Monaco just two days later.
Lyon have 17 remaining Ligue 1 matches that Endrick could feature in. They're also guaranteed five additional games across the Coupe de France and Europa League, having already secured a knockout stage spot in the latter with two league phase games remaining.
This totals a minimum of 22 matches, which would grow with advancement in either tournament.
There are potentially four additional Coupe de France matches if Lyon reach the final, plus up to five or seven more Europa League games depending on their final league phase position.
"Don't worry, he'll be able to play 25 games ... and even more," sporting director Matthieu Louis-Jean confirmed at the media conference marking Endrick's official presentation.
How Carlo Ancelotti Influenced Endrick's Transfer Decision
Limited club appearances have resulted in Endrick being overlooked by Brazil this season, just months before the 2026 World Cup and jeopardizing his squad position. There's a significant element of departing Real Madrid for playing time to reclaim that spot, with Endrick revealing discussions with Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti about his circumstances.
"I had conversations with Carlo Ancelotti. He advised me on areas for improvement," the player stated.
"I felt tremendous support from him. He said, 'Go, play, develop your football, I want you to be happy.' But I made my choice. He's an excellent coach; I knew him at Real Madrid, and he helped advance my game. His guidance helped me reach my decision.
"I want to do everything possible to assist Lyon and ensure the team succeeds."