Football fans were enthralled by Endrick Felipe Moreira de Sousa, often known as Endrick, as he emerged from the Palmeiras junior levels in the vast metropolis of São Paulo. Real Madrid signed him in a historic transaction hailed as "the biggest negotiation in the history of Brazilian football" by Palmeiras president Leila Pereira at the age of only 16.
Journey to Real Madrid
December 2022 saw the formal announcement by Real Madrid of the deal with Palmeiras for Endrick's move. Reportedly worth €60 million plus €12 million in taxes, the agreement enables him to join the Spanish giants when he turns 18 in July 2024. Endrick vowed to stay with Palmeiras and give performances full of goals, wins, and trophies until his departure.
The Brazilian won the Campeonato Paulista against Santos
Teenage striker Endrick of the Brazilian side Palmeiras has won another title before leaving to join Real Madrid in the summer. The team led by the 17-year-old won the Sao Paulo state championship for the third time in a row on Sunday, defeating local rival Santos 2-0.
A penalty earned by Endrick, who scored two goals for Brazil in friendlies last month, gave Raphael Veiga the lead in the 33rd minute. Aibal Moreno scored the second goal in the 67th. Santos won 1-0 the first leg.
“I am aware that I belong to a new generation and have experienced a lot. Endrick said, "My goal is to become an idol for every kid. Though I am aware that it is challenging since some people don't like me, I want to become their new idol. They should see me and conclude that if I can be here, so can they.
Endrick also played for the Palmeiras squad that won the Sao Paulo and Brazilian titles in 2022 and 2023.
Less than two months from now, he will be departing Palmeiras to accept a lucrative deal with Real Madrid in Spain. While Endrick was representing his country in friendlies against Spain and England, he said he was often asked about his upcoming move.
Endrick also thanked Palmeiras, the team he played for throughout his youth years.
International Spotlight
With the Brazilian under-17 squad, Endrick excelled in the Montaigu Tournament in France, winning the top scorer and best player trophies as Brazil won the championship, which launched his international career. With his November 2023 senior debut against Colombia, he became the youngest male player to be called up to the senior squad for Brazil since Ronaldo in 1994. He became the youngest player at Wembley Stadium when he scored his first goal for Brazil in a friendly against England in March 2024.
Playing Style
Endrick is renowned for being left-footed, having great shooting range, and working nonstop on the field. His motivation comes from Cristiano Ronaldo, who shares his commitment and never-say-die mentality. Brazil's best football prospects, his style of play has drawn similarities to Brazilian greats like Ronaldo, Pelé, and Romário.