Endrick stays at Real Madrid as Mourinho reveals tendon issue

Jose Mourinho had several opportunities to remove one player from Real Madrid’s crowded attack. Instead, he blocked Endrick’s departure and decided to work with the Brazilian himself. The only thing currently keeping the forward out of Mourinho’s plans is his own body.

Speaking before the match against Real Sociedad, Mourinho confirmed that Endrick will not be sold or sent on another loan. A number of clubs approached Madrid about the 20-year-old, but the coach rejected the possibility of letting him leave.

“I didn’t want to loan or sell him because I like the player,” Mourinho explained. “I’d like to work with this young player, who has important talents.”

The decision does not guarantee Endrick regular football. Kylian Mbappe remains the leading striker, Carlos Espi has joined the squad and Mourinho can also call upon Vinicius Junior, Brahim Diaz and Yan Diomande. Endrick will have to earn his minutes, but he will be given the chance to do so in Madrid.

His first obstacle is a physical one. Mourinho initially described the problem as a minor muscular issue before the opening league match against Espanyol. The latest update is more specific, with the injury affecting the tendon and being described as a minor case of tendinitis.

Madrid are treating the situation cautiously to prevent it from developing into something more serious. Mourinho did not provide a return date and admitted he does not know whether Endrick will be available for Carlo Ancelotti’s first Brazil squad.

“It’s a matter of prevention before it becomes a big problem,” the coach said. The complete comments were published by Real Madrid, while UOL also reported the tendinitis diagnosis and the interest from other clubs.

Endrick returned this summer following his loan spell at Lyon and soon found himself linked with another move. Mourinho has now closed that route. He wants to develop the striker rather than watch somebody else do it.

The coach stopped the transfer. The medical department will decide when he can finally use the player he fought to keep.