Gonzalo García’s departure initially looked like excellent news for Endrick. The young Brazilian appeared to have one less direct rival in Real Madrid’s attacking department, seemingly improving his chances of earning regular minutes under José Mourinho. However, that optimism lasted only a few hours before the Spanish giants unveiled a surprise signing that completely changed the picture.
Real Madrid officially announced the arrival of 21-year-old striker Carlos Espí from Levante after activating his €25 million release clause. The Spanish forward has signed a long-term contract that will keep him at the Santiago Bernabéu until June 2031. The move came as a surprise to many supporters, especially considering that the club had already completed several important transfers during the summer.
For Endrick, the signing represents another significant obstacle in what has already been a difficult start to his Madrid career.
Last season, the Brazilian teenager struggled to establish himself in the first team. With limited opportunities available, Real Madrid decided to send him on loan to Olympique Lyonnais during the winter transfer window. The objective was simple: allow him to play regularly and continue his development ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Although the loan provided valuable experience, his return to Madrid has not dramatically improved his situation. Kylian Mbappé remains the undisputed first-choice striker, while José Mourinho can also rely on Rodrygo, Franco Mastantuono, Brahim Díaz and the expected arrival of Yan Diomandé to strengthen the attacking line. The addition of Carlos Espí only increases the competition for places and leaves Endrick with an uncertain future.
The Brazilian now faces an important career decision. A second loan move is reportedly being considered, allowing him to continue playing regularly elsewhere before returning to Madrid with greater experience. Another possibility is a permanent transfer that would include a buy-back clause or a percentage of any future sale, a strategy Real Madrid has successfully used with several young talents in recent years.
Despite these possibilities, reports from Spain suggest that Endrick has no intention of leaving the club voluntarily. The former Palmeiras star is determined to stay in Madrid and fight for his place, convinced that he can eventually earn Mourinho’s trust through hard work and consistent performances in training.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, are also carefully evaluating the situation. The club invested around €60 million to secure Endrick’s signature from Palmeiras in 2024, making him one of the most expensive teenage prospects in world football. So far, that investment has yet to produce the expected sporting return.
🚨 CONFIRMED: Endrick's situation at Real Madrid is becoming COMPLICATED.
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) July 30, 2026
The player was already unhappy with the overcrowded attack, which meant few minutes for him.
Now with Carlos Espi joining, his situation has become even worse. @RubenMartinAS pic.twitter.com/x8No8IY94e
The coming months could therefore prove decisive for both the player and the club. If Endrick manages to impress Mourinho, he could finally establish himself as an important member of the squad. However, if opportunities remain scarce following the arrival of Carlos Espí and the fierce competition in attack, another temporary departure may become the most sensible solution.
One thing is certain: Real Madrid continue to build one of Europe’s deepest attacking squads, but for Endrick, every new signing makes the road to becoming a regular starter increasingly difficult.
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