- Endrick loses No. 9 shirt to La Fabrica striker Gonzalo Garcia
- Brazilian reportedly frustrated by Real Madrid‘s decision
- Loan move still possible if minutes remain limited
Real Madrid have reportedly decided to hand their famous No. 9 shirt to Garcia instead of Endrick. The Brazilian forward was left visibly frustrated in the locker room by the decision, according to Radio Marca. After returning from injury, Endrick had hoped to make his mark but has been leapfrogged in the pecking order by the academy graduate after his strong showings at the Club World Cup.
Endrick was already facing stiff competition from Kylian Mbappe and others, and now the shirt snub adds to his challenges. While Garcia impressed in the Club World Cup, Endrick hasn’t yet had a chance to prove himself under Xabi Alonso. The situation raises questions about the club’s long-term plans for the teenage star, who has had a lot of expectation placed on his shoulders since he moved to Europe.
Despite interest from clubs like Real Sociedad, Endrick rejected all loan offers this summer. His return from injury is expected around mid-September, leaving little time to stake his claim. For now, he’s without his preferred shirt number and battling for relevance in Real Madrid’s crowded attack.
The 19-year-old must now wait for his opportunity and be ready to impress once fit. If minutes remain scarce, the club could push for a loan move in January. For now, the pressure is on the teenager to prove he belongs at the Santiago Bernabeu.
