Endrick: Man United target makes bold Sir Bobby Charlton claim

Real Madrid-owned forward Endrick has revealed a deep admiration for Manchester United icon Sir Bobby Charlton, a connection that could yet influence the 19-year-old’s next career move as United monitor his progress ahead of the summer window.

The Brazilian teenager, who swapped Palmeiras for the Bernabéu in July 2024, slipped down the pecking order after Xabi Alonso replaced Carlo Ancelotti and accepted a six-month loan to Lyon in January. Since arriving at Groupama Stadium, Endrick has reignited his trajectory, posting six goals and five assists in 15 appearances across all competitions.

United, long-time admirers of the striker, are again at the front of the queue for his signature, according to a report relayed by The Peoples Person. Endrick’s public affection for Charlton may give the Premier League club an emotional edge in what is expected to be a fiercely contested race.

The forward first underlined his respect for the 1966 World-Cup winner after scoring for Brazil against England at Wembley aged just 17, saying: “A guy who is an idol here is also Bobby Charlton. Playing in the stadium Bobby played, scoring on the day Ronaldo debuted – these are very important memories for me.”

Speaking to FourFourTwo, Endrick explained that his fascination with Charlton began while building Ultimate Team squads on EA Sports FC. “Besides Bobby Charlton, I also like playing with Ruud Gullit. I started learning about Charlton’s history because he was a striker, but also played as a midfielder and defended very well too. I researched him and saw he played for Manchester United, won the European Cup and was loved by the local fans. I liked his story and used him a lot in the game because he has an amazing shot.”

Although the pair never met – Charlton died in October 2023 – Endrick continues to study clips of the England great on social media. The self-education has earned him the nickname “Bobby” inside the Real Madrid dressing room, a moniker he embraces as proof of the squad’s tight-knit culture.

Endrick’s immediate focus is on maintaining form for Lyon, yet his long-term future is expected to dominate headlines. United are poised to prioritise midfield reinforcements, but the Brazilian’s prolific output in Ligue 1 could force the club to accelerate interest and bring another South American talent to Old Trafford.

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