Carlo Ancelotti names Real Madrid forward in Brazil squad despite fitness concerns
Endrick has received a fresh vote of confidence from Carlo Ancelotti after being included in Brazil’s 26-man squad for the upcoming friendlies against Australia and India.
The Real Madrid forward has yet to make his competitive debut for the club this season after struggling with fitness problems dating back to pre-season.
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Despite his lack of playing time, Ancelotti has decided to keep faith with the 19-year-old as Brazil continues to assess its options in attack.
“I believe Endrick will be an important player for the future of the national team,” said Ancelotti as he announced the 26-man squad for two friendlies against Australia and one against India.
The call-up comes at an important point in Endrick’s Madrid career, as he remained with the Spanish giants despite receiving significant offers for both a loan and permanent transfer.
Endrick faces competition at Real Madrid
Endrick’s immediate challenge is to establish himself in Mourinho’s plans.
On paper, he will compete for the role of first-choice attacking substitute alongside Yan Diomande and Carlos Espi, although his fitness has so far prevented him from making his competitive debut.
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Despite all this, his situation at club level has not stopped Ancelotti from placing considerable faith in him internationally.
Endrick was part of Brazil’s squad at the last World Cup but failed to make the expected impact, yet the Italian has opted to continue backing the young forward.
“Over the past year we’ve tried out a lot of centre-forwards, but I think the situation is now very clear to everyone.
“We’ve got a couple of very promising young players, and we need to keep an eye on their progress,” said Carletto.
The Brazil boss believes the national team has strong depth in attack, with Endrick among several younger players being monitored.
Endrick is yet to make a competitive appearance this season. (Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images)
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“As well as Endrick, we’ve got other young players who are performing well, as well as others who aren’t on the list. We’re very well covered in terms of forwards,” he added.
Ancelotti keeps close eye on Real Madrid
Ancelotti’s decision to select Endrick also comes after the former Real Madrid manager visited Valdebebas last week.
The Italian, who managed the club on two separate occasions, used the visit to meet Madrid’s Brazilian players and assess the progress of Rodrygo and Eder Militao, both of whom are recovering from long-term injuries.
For Endrick, the international call-up provides an opportunity to regain competitive sharpness and remind both Brazil and Real Madrid of his qualities.
Yet his immediate priority is to break into Mourinho’s team and prove that his fitness problems are behind him.