Endrick reveals Ancelotti’s advice behind Real Madrid loan exit

January 6, 2026 Oliver Obel

Endrick’s decision to leave Real Madrid on loan in January was shaped less by short-term frustration and more by long-term planning. After arriving in France, the Brazilian forward explained how a personal conversation with national team coach Carlo Ancelotti helped clarify the next step in his development.

At 19, Endrick is navigating a familiar challenge for young players at elite clubs: balancing limited opportunities with growing international expectations. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the move to Lyon reflects a calculated choice to prioritise minutes over prestige.

Guidance beyond club football

Endrick was officially presented by Lyon on Monday, ending weeks of uncertainty around his immediate future. He made just one appearance in La Liga and one in the Champions League this season under new Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso.

Although Madrid approved the temporary departure, Endrick said the most influential guidance came from Ancelotti, who recently took charge of Brazil. According to the player, their discussion centred on development and readiness rather than waiting for chances to emerge.

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“Yes, I spoke to Carlo about it. He gave me instructions on what I could do, what I needed to do to improve, and that really touched me,” Endrick said at his unveiling, as reported by AFP.

World Cup considerations

Ancelotti’s dual role as adviser and national team selector gave the message added significance. Endrick explained that the importance of regular playing time was made clear, particularly with competition for attacking places in Brazil’s squad expected to be intense.

The forward said Ancelotti encouraged him to leave Madrid in order to play consistently, develop his game, and find an environment where he could feel settled — advice Endrick ultimately chose to follow.

Rather than seeing the loan as a setback, he described it as a practical step aimed at remaining competitive at international level.

Perspective off the pitch

Despite his limited involvement in Spain, Endrick rejected the idea that dissatisfaction pushed him toward the exit. He spoke positively about recent months away from constant scrutiny.

“No, honestly, what I tell my loved ones is that these have been the best months of my career,” he said through a translator. “Because I’ve had time to be with my wife, to build my house and my life.”

The remarks suggested a level of patience and perspective not always associated with teenage prospects at Europe’s biggest clubs.

Why Lyon appealed

Several European sides monitored Endrick’s situation, but Lyon ultimately secured the loan after discussions with Real Madrid, the club said in its announcement. A decisive factor for the player was the presence of Portuguese head coach Paulo Fonseca and his staff.

“The fact that the technical staff is Portuguese is a very good thing, because I was already coached by a Portuguese coach, Abel Ferreira, at Palmeiras,” Endrick said. “It’s good for me, because I know how they operate. It was a plus point.”

Lyon sit fifth in Ligue 1 and remain in the race for Champions League qualification. While regular starts are not guaranteed, the move offers Endrick a clearer opportunity to play — and to remain firmly in Ancelotti’s thinking as Brazil’s World Cup preparations continue.

Sources: AFP