Xabi Alonso criticised for Endrick loan after his rise at Lyon
A fast rise far from Madrid
Endrick’s early weeks in Ligue 1 have quickly shifted the conversation around his future. The Brazilian forward, still in his teens, has adapted rapidly to senior football in France, drawing attention not only for his goals but for the confidence of his performances.
According to L’Équipe, his hat trick against Metz marked a turning point in how his loan move is being viewed in Spain, where observers are reassessing what had initially been framed as a standard development decision.
Spanish media reassess the decision
The reaction in Madrid has grown louder as Endrick’s influence at Lyon has become harder to ignore. Spanish newspapers and commentators are increasingly questioning whether the club misjudged how soon he could contribute at the highest level.
L’Équipe reports that several outlets in Spain now describe the loan as premature, noting that his physical readiness and sharp finishing suggest he may have been capable of competing for minutes earlier than expected.
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Attention turns to Alonso’s role
Xabi Alonso has emerged as a central figure in the discussion. While criticism has not focused on tactics or results, his involvement in approving the loan has been highlighted as part of a broader debate about squad planning.
According to reporting cited by L’Équipe, the scrutiny reflects concern that Madrid may have prioritised long term planning at the expense of short term depth, particularly during a demanding season.
Lyon benefit on and off the pitch
At Lyon, the mood is markedly different. Endrick’s goals have delivered immediate sporting value, while his presence has also generated significant media attention for the club.
L’Équipe notes that his early impact and visibility have prompted comparisons to Kylian Mbappé’s emergence in Ligue 1, specifically in terms of media profile rather than playing style, underlining the scale of the spotlight now surrounding him.
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A loan that reshapes the conversation
As Endrick continues to settle in France, the focus in Madrid is no longer solely on his development, but on what his progress says about decision making at elite clubs. For Lyon, the loan represents opportunity seized. For Madrid, it has reopened an internal debate that is likely to persist as long as his form continues.
Sources: L’Équipe
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