Analysis

José Mourinho Blocks Endrick’s Departure from Real Madrid

Rédaction
August 11, 2026
José Mourinho Blocks Endrick’s Departure from Real Madrid

Endrick is set to remain at Real Madrid for the 2026/27 season. Despite strong loan interest from AS Roma and Aston Villa, José Mourinho has decided to block the Brazilian striker’s departure after being impressed by his performances during pre-season.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, the Portuguese coach has made it clear that he wants Endrick to be part of his squad this season. The young forward’s recent displays in friendly matches have convinced Mourinho that he can play an important role for Real Madrid, even if he will still have to fight hard to earn regular minutes.

José Mourinho Blocks Endrick's Departure from Real Madrid

The decision represents an important turning point for Endrick, whose future had been the subject of growing speculation throughout the summer.

Mourinho Sees Endrick in More Than One Role

One of the reasons Mourinho wants to keep the Brazilian is his versatility.

Endrick will not necessarily be used exclusively as a traditional number nine. The Real Madrid coach reportedly believes the youngster can also operate on the right wing, giving the team another attacking option.

It is not an unfamiliar position for Endrick. During his time at Palmeiras, he occasionally played in wider areas, and he was also used there at certain moments during his loan spell with Olympique Lyonnais last season.

His ability to play centrally or from the flank could prove valuable in a squad packed with attacking talent.

Real Madrid Backs Mourinho’s Decision

Real Madrid are fully supportive of Mourinho’s choice.

The club continues to have enormous faith in Endrick, who joined from Palmeiras in a deal worth €35 million in guaranteed payments, with a further €25 million potentially due in bonuses. When additional financial commitments surrounding the transfer are taken into account, the overall investment has already reportedly exceeded €80 million.

Madrid therefore remain determined to give the Brazilian every opportunity to fulfil the enormous potential that convinced them to sign him at such a young age.

Endrick himself is understood to be delighted with Mourinho’s decision. His objective is now clear: earn the manager’s confidence, receive more playing time and finally establish himself as an important player at the Santiago Bernabéu.

His loan spell at Lyon last season played a significant role in his development. The Brazilian finished the campaign with eight goals and five assists in 21 appearances, performances that also helped him return to the Brazil national team for the World Cup.

Roma and Aston Villa Talks Stopped

Roma and Aston Villa had both been seriously interested in signing Endrick on loan.

According to AS, negotiations had already progressed considerably, with Roma appearing to be the most attractive destination. The Italian club could have offered Champions League football and potentially a regular starting role.

However, Mourinho has now closed the door on those discussions.

Endrick will remain in Madrid and attempt to convince his coach that he deserves an important place in the team.

The situation could still be reassessed later in the season. If his playing time remains limited during the first few months of the campaign, the possibility of a temporary departure could return when the January transfer window opens.

For now, though, Mourinho’s message is clear: Endrick stays at Real Madrid.

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