Brazilian forward Endrick has opened up on his initial struggles at Real Madrid and the unexpected relationship he formed with Jude Bellingham.
Endrick failed to make his mark at Madrid but has rediscovered his best form on loan at Lyon. The Brazilian forward has now revealed that Bellingham played a huge role in helping him settle down in Spain as well as navigate through the tough phase.
According to Endrick, Bellingham was completely different from what he had originally anticipated before arriving at the Santiago Bernabeu.
In an interview with The Guardian, Endrick spoke warmly about Bellingham, saying: “Bellingham was really important to me. He made me feel welcome at the club. I didn’t speak English very well, but he spoke to me, tried to speak a bit of Spanish, was by my side and gave me advice. His friendship was important to me in my beginning at Real Madrid. That really had an impact on me. I had a certain impression of him before I arrived, but he was completely different. He’s an incredible player and an incredible person too, especially when it comes to friendship. That’s what impressed me the most about him.”
Endrick Felipe celebrates with Jude Bellingham. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Endrick also revealed that Luka Modric‘s work ethic at Real served as a blueprint for professional success, before he left the club last summer.
The Brazilian star explained: “Modric was the player who most impressed me at Real Madrid: 100%. He’s a guy who taught me a lot in my first year. Not just in training, but also in matches. It was a football masterclass. He was 40 years old and very strong. He trained every day. When he wasn’t playing, he’d go to the club and train, doing his own extra training. The way he plays is incredible. He always gave me tips, telling me what I should do on the pitch. That helped me a lot. He was one of the most incredible guys I’ve ever met in football.”
Now playing at the highest level in Ligue 1 with four goals and six assists in 13 matches for Lyon, Endrick is focused on securing his spot in the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup.
“My first desire is to play the World Cup. I need to be there. That’s my first thought. Before thinking about the title, I need to do my job well at Lyon. I’m focused here. I need to play well in these remaining games to secure my place. My dream is to play the World Cup and help my country. I’ll do my best to help Brazil,” Endrick concluded.
