Real Madrid already preparing to give up on one of their big transfers

The Santiago Bernabéu has long been the stage for football's grandest arrivals, a destination where the world's most prodigious talents are unveiled with fanfare and sky-high expectations. When Real Madrid agreed to sign Endrick from Palmeiras in 2022 for a fee that could reach €60 million, the buzz around the teenage forward was deafening. Hailed as the next Brazilian sensation, a powerful, clinical striker destined to lead the line for the Blancos for years to come, his signing was seen as a bold statement of intent, securing a generational talent before he truly exploded onto the European scene. Yet, even before the highly anticipated 18th birthday that will officially allow him to join the Spanish giants, whispers from within the club suggest a surprising shift in perspective regarding the young phenomenon.

The initial excitement surrounding Endrick was entirely justified. At just 15, he was already dominating youth tournaments, showcasing an explosive blend of pace, power, and predatory finishing that belied his tender years. His early senior appearances for Palmeiras continued to fuel the hype, with crucial goals and moments of individual brilliance cementing his status as one of global football's hottest properties. Real Madrid, renowned for their strategic investments in South American youth, moved swiftly to secure his signature, envisioning him as the spearhead of a new attacking era alongside compatriots Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo. However, the intervening period has seen a more inconsistent performance curve from the youngster, coupled with the relentless pressure of a nation’s hopes resting on his shoulders. While flashes of his undeniable talent remain, the consistent, world-beating form many anticipated has not yet materialized, prompting a re-evaluation of his immediate impact upon arrival.