Real Madrid's Endrick Loan Move: A Gamble That Could Backfire Spectacularly
While Real Madrid continues to depend excessively on star striker Kylian Mbappé for their attacking output, Endrick is making waves in Ligue 1 just three weeks after his loan move to Lyon.
The Brazilian prodigy arrived at the Spanish capital amid enormous expectations, but quickly discovered his early Santiago Bernabéu experience restricted to fleeting substitute appearances, before being completely sidelined in favor of Club World Cup sensation Gonzalo García.
Indeed, Endrick managed just 99 minutes under Xabi Alonso during the opening half of the 2025–26 campaign despite displaying glimpses of excellence in his limited opportunities throughout his inaugural season. The forward was also given the iconic No. 9 jersey this summer, yet his minimal game time eventually led to his temporary move to Lyon.
The €1 million ($1.2 million) arrangement represents the sole transaction completed by the Spanish powerhouse in the January window thus far, and it may prove to be a decision they regret as the campaign unfolds.
Endrick Steals the Show at Lyon
Endrick Steals the Show at Lyon
⚽️⚽️⚽️ @OL pic.twitter.com/cUulcGIFHF
The era of Endrick warming the bench at Real Madrid has concluded. The 19-year-old has featured in the starting lineup for three of Lyon's previous four fixtures, contributing at least one goal or assist in every appearance.
Endrick launched his French adventure perfectly, finding the net on his maiden outing. The striker converted a left-footed effort just before the interval against Lille, propelling his side to a 2–1 victory in their Coupe de France encounter.
Seven days later, Endrick made his inaugural Ligue 1 appearance and provided the decisive assist against Brest. He additionally generated the highest number of chances (five), completed the most successful dribbles (nine) and won the greatest amount of duels (13) during the contest, securing Man of the Match recognition.
Endrick then surpassed his previous efforts this past weekend, netting a treble in Lyon's commanding 5–2 triumph over Metz. His opening strike was straightforward from close quarters, but his second demonstrated his pace, calmness and elegant finishing during a counter-attack. The Brazil international completed his memorable evening with a penalty conversion.
History-Making Night Is Only the Beginning
History-Making Night Is Only the Beginning
Netting a hat-trick following extensive periods on the substitutes' bench at Real Madrid would have provided sufficient cause for celebration, but Endrick achieved this milestone in record-breaking style. At 19 years and 188 days old, he became Lyon's youngest player to score three times in a single Ligue 1 fixture, eclipsing Bernard Lacombe's previous mark.
Endrick also established himself as the fourth youngest player this century to complete a hat-trick in Ligue 1, joining this prestigious group of talents:
Earning his position in the record books alongside current Ballon d'Or holder Ousmane Dembélé and 2026 Ballon d'Or frontrunner Kylian Mbappé represents a fairytale moment for Endrick, particularly considering the latter was a teammate and mentor during his time at Real Madrid.
"This marks my first career hat-trick," Endrick told French football broadcaster Ligue 1+ following the match. "I'm incredibly happy. Truly. It was a fantastic game. I'll be keeping this ball at home. This is an extraordinary day in my life."
Real Madrid Looking on With Pride ... For Now
Real Madrid Looking on With Pride ... For Now
One motivation behind Real Madrid's decision to loan Endrick to Lyon was to facilitate his progression. The ideal outcome involved the Brazilian accumulating crucial experience through regular playing time, before returning to the Bernabéu as an improved, more complete player ready to contribute to the team's success.
Endrick's impressive early displays in France should represent positive news for Los Blancos. However, speculation is already emerging about whether the club would have benefited more from retaining the teenager in Madrid, provided they offered him increased opportunities.
Ultimately, the 15-time European champions desperately need a reliable goalscorer beyond Mbappé. Real Madrid's leading scorers this season across all competitions include:
The significant gap between Mbappé and Vinicius Jr, the club's second-highest scorer this campaign, is concerning. A player possessing Endrick's left foot and instinctive finishing prowess would represent a valuable asset to Álvaro Arbeloa's squad, which faces challenges creating and converting scoring chances without Mbappé's involvement.
Currently, Real Madrid's most natural and talented No. 9 is representing Lyon, a choice that could prove costly should Mbappé encounter additional fitness issues or experience a decline in scoring form.