Endrick Takes Number 9 Shirt at Real Madrid Following Fiorentina Goal

Forward Endrick is likely to remain at Real Madrid this season after scoring in a 2-2 preseason draw against Fiorentina.

Endrick has secured the number nine shirt in Real Madrid’s provisional squad list for the 2026-27 season. The 20-year-old Brazil forward recently found the net during a 2-2 friendly draw against Fiorentina, a performance that has bolstered his chances of remaining at the Santiago Bernabéu. Multiple sources have confirmed to ESPN that the striker is more likely to stay in the Spanish capital than depart on a loan deal during the current transfer window.

Personal circumstances are heavily influencing the player's desire to avoid a move away from Madrid. Endrick is expecting the birth of his first child in October, a milestone that has made him keen to maintain stability in Spain. This follows a period of transition for the attacker, who spent the second half of the previous campaign on loan at Lyon. Despite his preference to stay, the club has not entirely ruled out the possibility of another temporary exit before the window closes.

Transfer Market Activity and Squad Changes

Real Madrid has already facilitated movement within their forward line this summer. The club permitted young attacker Gonzalo García to join Fulham. To bolster their ranks, they completed the signing of Carlos Espí from Levante. Sources indicate that the arrival of Espí will have no direct impact on the final decision regarding Endrick’s roster status for the upcoming year.

While Roma and Aston Villa have been linked with the Brazilian international, no formal offers have been submitted to the Madrid board. Representatives close to the player have explicitly denied engaging in negotiations with any other clubs. If the hierarchy eventually decides on a departure, the Premier League is viewed as the priority destination to ensure the forward continues his development at the highest competitive level.

Potential Loan Terms and Development Strategy

Should Real Madrid opt for a late transfer, the club is prepared to negotiate specific financial and legal terms. They would consider a loan agreement that includes a purchase option for the receiving team. However, any such deal would require Madrid to retain a percentage of the player’s rights to protect his future value. A final determination on these structural details has not yet been reached by the technical staff.

Manager José Mourinho has expressed dissatisfaction with other areas of the squad, specifically noting that Bernardo Silva’s fitness levels must improve. These internal evaluations coincide with the release of a Netflix documentary where the manager suggested he and others were being manipulated. Amidst these administrative distractions, Endrick’s preseason form remains a point of focus for the sporting department.

Preseason Impact and Future Outlook

Endrick’s goal against Fiorentina served as a primary showcase of his readiness for the first team. The forward has been in high demand throughout the summer, yet his integration into the provisional squad suggests he remains central to the club's immediate plans. The 2026-27 campaign represents a significant step for the 20-year-old as he seeks to transition from a developmental prospect into a consistent contributor for the Spanish giants.