Endrick Backs Xabi Alonso After Real Madrid Exit as Lyon Loan Revives His Season
Endrick has broken his silence on Xabi Alonso’s departure from Real Madrid, offering a calm and respectful assessment of a coach who rarely used him before sanctioning his loan move to Lyon.
The 19 year old Brazilian forward struggled for minutes under Alonso at the Bernabeu, featuring just three times this season before being sent to France for the second half of the campaign, a move that has already sparked a resurgence in form and confidence.
Despite limited opportunities in Madrid, Endrick made an immediate impact on his Lyon debut, scoring and helping the club secure qualification. The performance marked a sharp contrast to his stalled role in Spain and underlined why the loan was viewed as necessary for his development.
The teenager arrived at Real Madrid in 2024 from Palmeiras and enjoyed a promising first year under Carlo Ancelotti, scoring seven goals in 37 appearances. Alonso’s appointment shifted the landscape, and with competition fierce and injuries disrupting his rhythm, Endrick found consistent football hard to come by.
Lyon offered a fresh environment and a tactical system that suited his skill set. The atmosphere, freedom in attack, and trust from the coaching staff have allowed him to play with greater expression, something evident from his movement, pressing, and goal threat in his opening appearance.
There were no major controversies surrounding his departure from Madrid, but the lack of minutes was decisive. Rather than harbour frustration, Endrick has framed the period as a learning phase, highlighting the value of training under elite managers despite limited match action.
His Lyon goal came from an energetic attacking display, combining intelligent positioning with sharp finishing. It was a moment that reflected confidence restored and a player eager to reassert himself at senior level.
After the break, Lyon continued to control key phases of the game, with Endrick drifting between roles, linking play, and contributing defensively. His versatility stood out, reinforcing his desire to be useful across the front line rather than confined to a single position.
The late stages were played with authority as Lyon protected their advantage, while Endrick remained involved, pressing from the front and showing maturity beyond his years in managing the closing moments.
Off the pitch, Endrick was quick to praise Alonso following his sacking after Real Madrid’s Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona. He credited the former midfielder for his football knowledge and influence during training, even while acknowledging his own frustration with injuries and limited involvement.
Looking ahead, Endrick’s focus is firmly on consistency at Lyon and forcing his way back into Brazil’s plans ahead of the summer World Cup. With confidence returning and minutes now guaranteed, the loan spell represents a defining chapter, not just in his club career, but in his pursuit of international recognition.