Kroos Backs Vinicius Jr Amid Transfer Rumours and Praises Lyon-Bound Endrick

Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos has spoken highly of Vinicius Jr, reflecting on their strong bond at the Spanish giants, even as speculation grows over the Brazilian’s potential 2026 exit. Kroos also offered insights on Endrick’s loan move to Lyon, highlighting the importance of game time for young talents.

Vinicius Jr has seen his influence at Madrid wane since Kylian Mbappe’s arrival in 2024. The 25-year-old has contributed five goals and eight assists in 24 appearances this season, while Mbappe leads with 29 goals. Rumours of a big-money switch to the Saudi Pro League continue, with Al-Ittihad sporting director Ramon Planes openly acknowledging the possibility of the wideman leaving Santiago Bernabeu.

Vinicius Jr was once the focal point of Madrid’s attack and remains a key figure despite recent challenges. Kroos’ comments come amid growing debate about the Brazilian’s future, while Endrick seeks more consistent playing time after only four appearances under Xabi Alonso. Loan moves have historically provided young talents with crucial development opportunities, as Kroos himself experienced during his early years at Bayer Leverkusen.

During their six years together at Madrid, Kroos and Vinicius Jr built a notable on-field understanding. Kroos noted the contrast between Brazilian and German approaches to life and football, emphasizing how their mutual respect off the pitch translated into effective attacking combinations. Casemiro and Militao also featured prominently in Kroos’ reflections on his Real Madrid experience.

Kroos highlighted Vinicius’ pace and movement as perfectly complemented by his passing vision. Off-field chemistry played a vital role in their on-pitch success, helping create fluid attacking patterns and decisive moments during matches. Meanwhile, Endrick’s limited minutes for Madrid prompted the club to arrange a short-term loan to Lyon, aiming to give the teenager consistent first-team exposure.

While Kroos did not focus on specific matches or goals in his comments, he praised Vinicius’ ability to exploit spaces and make runs that consistently challenged opponents, combining technical skill with tactical intelligence.

Kroos stressed that a player’s development is enhanced by regular playing time, referencing his own loan experience as a crucial stage in his career. For Endrick, the Lyon move is a chance to gain minutes, confidence, and match experience—elements that were limited at Madrid this season.

With Vinicius Jr potentially heading for a Saudi Pro League move, Kroos’ endorsement provides reassurance of the Brazilian’s professionalism and talent. The timing of Endrick’s loan also raises anticipation around how quickly he can adapt and make an impact in Ligue 1.

Kroos’ insights underline both the value of strong team relationships and the importance of consistent playing time for young players. For Vinicius Jr, the next couple of years may define his career trajectory, while Endrick’s loan represents a strategic step in Madrid’s long-term planning for emerging talents.