Carlo Ancelotti failed to hide his excitement after watching Endrick’s debut for Real Madrid, labelling the teenager a “great talent”.
The Brazil international played the opening 45 minutes against Milan in Chicago. And although the Serie A side claimed the win courtesy of a Samuel Chukwueze goal, it was Endrick who was the focus of attention.
The 18-year-old, signed from Palmeiras, shone in the absence of Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jnr before making way at the break as Ancelotti rotated his squad.
🆕 @Endrick makes his @realmadriden debut.#RealMadridOnTour pic.twitter.com/rQl3hC4Vu6
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) August 1, 2024
The Italian said afterwards: “He [Endrick] is someone who has something truly special.
“He’s very fast, very dangerous in tight spaces, has the ability to turn with speed in little space, very agile in getting himself free and all these qualities he has means he’s a great talent. It’s rare to see a player with these types of characteristics.”
Although the European champions were beaten in their opening run-out in pre-season, Ancelotti was unconcerned, adding: “We competed, we fought, we did some good things. The first game of the pre-season with a lot of youngsters, the important thing was to compete which we did for the whole game.
“There were some good moments and others we could improve on but that’s normal.”
Guler highlighted for more prominent role
Another young player whose stock is on the rise is Turkey midfielder Arda Guler, who was outstanding during Euro 2024.
Ancelotti said of the 19-year-old: “He has returned in good shape, he worked hard on his vacation. He is more powerful but with the same quality.
“This season will be important for him with greater prominence.”
Madrid play Barcelona in New Jersey on Saturday.
