Endrick celebrates a goal in Lyon's win over Metz in Ligue 1 on 25/1. Photo: AFP

One and a half months have passed since the 19-year-old talent joined Lyon from Real Madrid on loan until the end of the season. In January 2026, Endrick debuted for the French club against Lille in the round of 16 of the National Cup. He immediately made an impact, scoring the winning goal in a 2-1 victory, taking six shots, and completing seven dribbles.

To date, after 429 minutes across five appearances for Lyon in all competitions, the Brazilian forward has scored five goals and provided two assists. This includes a hat-trick in the 5-2 win against Metz in Ligue 1 in late January. Witnessing the brilliant form of the talent Real brought in during summer 2024, French newspaper L’Equipe suggested Lyon should negotiate to keep Endrick beyond this season.

Many questions have begun to surface: How did the player born in 2006 achieve such a remarkable transformation after a long period on the sidelines at Santiago Bernabeu? What is the reason for this explosion in form? What is his daily routine like?

The answer, according to Spanish newspaper Marca, is that there is no secret. Endrick follows no special training regimen beyond the standard recommendations for a professional, elite player. "The key lies in his determination and warrior mentality," those close to Endrick shared with the Madrid-based newspaper.

Endrick's life in Lyon is remarkably simple: from home to the training ground, and from the training ground back home. He remains focused on his profession, content with his married life with his wife Gabriely, and enjoys a warm family atmosphere. Although he has a dedicated support team in his new surroundings, it is the same familiar group that accompanied him in Madrid.

Endrick and his wife Gabriely, who is five years his senior, at their wedding in Brazil in July 2025.

The fitness and physical therapy specialist who cared for him in Spain also moved with him to France. This is not unusual, as 15 players in Real's current squad have personal specialists. Endrick also has a private chef living with him to manage his diet, who also relocated from Madrid. Additionally, Jose Massih, a trusted assistant responsible for all personal matters for the 19-year-old forward and his family, recently moved in with Endrick.

Overseeing this entire operation is Frederico Pena, Endrick's agent and CEO of Roc Nation in Brazil. Pena also represents Vinicius and is one of the most influential figures in the Brazilian transfer market. Working alongside him is Thiago Freitas, another key figure at Roc Nation. Freitas handles advertising contracts and press relations for the young Brazilian star, playing a crucial role in allowing Endrick to fully focus on playing football.

During a sensitive period in his career, as Endrick adapted to a new team and living environment, Pena and Freitas closely monitored developments during their client's initial days in France. Freitas even flew from Brazil to Lyon in the first month, and Massih is now authorized to stay on-site, just as he did when the talent from Palmeiras was in Spain. They form a three-pillar support system behind Endrick.

With such a clearly assigned and dedicated logistical apparatus, the rest is up to Endrick's own effort. As the forward himself shared in late January, a conversation with coach Carlo Ancelotti before leaving Real motivated him to always strive to prove himself.

Endrick (number 21) celebrates after scoring in a friendly match between Brazil and England on 23/3/2024 at Wembley Stadium, London, England. Photo: Reuters

The Brazilian Football Confederation currently holds the most positive reports on Endrick and continuously updates his situation in Lyon. If he maintains this form, he is highly likely to feature in the Selecao squad for the World Cup 2026. This is considered significant both professionally and economically, as Endrick's main sponsor, American brand New Balance, has chosen the 19-year-old forward as its brand ambassador and produced a dedicated clothing line featuring his image.

In a short period, Endrick's decision to go on loan has proven to be a wise one. He accepted the risk, but needed that impetus to return to Real with dignity and renewed vigor, and to maximize his chances of participating in the World Cup. If things continue smoothly, he will achieve both goals.

According to Marca, Real still places full trust in Endrick and sees him as a key figure for the future, specifically from next season. The Bernabeu club has also invested significantly in this deal, with total transfer fees, salary, and bonuses exceeding 82 million USD.

Xabi Alonso had previously prioritized Gonzalo Garcia over the Brazilian player. Sidelining Endrick was entirely the 44-year-old coach's decision. By the time Alonso was dismissed, Endrick had already finalized his loan deal to Lyon. Real understands that Endrick is one of the team's most valuable assets, and reality is proving the club's faith is justified.

Hoang Thong (according to Marca)