Carlo Ancelotti has dismissed reports claiming he advised young striker Endrick to leave Real Madrid in search of playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
According to a report from GOAL, Brazil head coach and Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has denied claims that he told teenage striker Endrick to leave the club to secure a place in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad. The 19-year-old forward is reportedly close to completing a January loan move to Lyon after limited game time in Spain.
Speaking to Diario AS, Ancelotti said, “He’s a very important player because he’s one of the talents to have come out of Brazilian football. But it’s not true that I said Endrick should leave Real Madrid to go to the World Cup. That’s a matter between Real Madrid and the player.”
Reports from Globo Esporte indicate that Real Madrid have accepted Lyon’s proposal in principle, beating late interest from Manchester United and Aston Villa. Endrick has featured for just 11 minutes this La Liga season following injury setbacks and competition from Gonzalo Garcia.
Despite Madrid’s preference for a domestic loan to aid his adaptation, Endrick reportedly pushed for France to gain more playing time and rebuild confidence. Ancelotti, however, maintained optimism, saying, “He’s training well, he’s ready, but the right moment has to come.”