Festive week for Endrick: 'He has guts'

Real Madrid’s rising star Endrick is making headlines not only for his impressive Champions League debut but also for his personal life, which has captured the attention of fans and media alike.

At just 18 years old, Endrick has quickly made a name for himself in the football world, and his latest performance in the Champions League showcased the boldness and composure that have become his trademarks.

During Real Madrid’s match against Stuttgart, Endrick found himself on a counterattack alongside two of the game’s biggest stars, Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Júnior. Instead of taking the safer option by passing to either of his renowned teammates, Endrick made a bold decision: he chose to take the shot himself. It was a high-risk move, especially for someone so young and still making his way in Europe’s elite competition, but the decision paid off as the ball hit the back of the net, sealing a triumphant moment for both him and the team.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was full of praise for the young Brazilian, who had only recently joined the squad. “He’s got guts because it was a counterattack, and he had the courage to shoot,” Ancelotti told reporters after the game. The Italian coach, known for his calm and strategic approach, was impressed by Endrick’s fearlessness, noting, “It was the last play of the match. He was convinced he would score. He went for the toughest option, but it worked out. In these two days, he has shown that he is brave in every way.”

Ancelotti’s confidence in Endrick mirrors the growing belief within Real Madrid that they have unearthed a future star. The decision to sign him from Palmeiras was a significant investment in the club’s long-term ambitions, and his impact is already being felt. Endrick’s goal was not just a moment of brilliance, but a sign of the kind of player he is becoming: someone willing to take responsibility, even when surrounded by established superstars.

Rodrygo, Endrick’s fellow Brazilian and another key figure in Madrid’s attack, couldn’t help but marvel at his teammate’s audacity. “Endrick is crazy, he did something no one else would do,” Rodrygo said, laughing as he reflected on the moment. “I’m very happy for him. Scoring in the Champions League is special, and he must be feeling a lot of joy.” Rodrygo, who himself knows what it’s like to break through at a young age, was clearly delighted for Endrick, and their camaraderie speaks volumes about the positive atmosphere in the squad.

But Endrick’s performance wasn’t just lauded by his attacking teammates. Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid’s star goalkeeper, was named Man of the Match for his string of crucial saves throughout the game, but even he couldn’t resist joining the conversation about Endrick’s heroics. Known for his quick wit and leadership, Courtois jokingly commented, “If he had missed, I would have killed him.” The Belgian’s playful remark highlighted the lighthearted but competitive nature of the team, while he also acknowledged Endrick’s growing presence within the squad. “But he made me and others keep quiet. He has confidence and a super strong shot. He shows his personality by not passing the ball to Vinícius or Mbappé.”

Courtois’ comments reflect the trust Endrick is beginning to earn from his teammates, a significant accomplishment for such a young player in one of the world’s most demanding clubs. As Real Madrid looks to reclaim dominance in both La Liga and the Champions League, performances like this from Endrick offer a glimpse of the exciting future that lies ahead.

In the post-match interview, Antonio Rüdiger, the no-nonsense German defender, couldn’t resist crashing Courtois’ spotlight moment. In typical playful fashion, Rüdiger interrupted the interview, shouting “Bobby!” at Endrick, referring to Bobby Charlton, one of Endrick’s childhood heroes. Endrick had previously spoken in an interview about his admiration for Charlton, a football legend who left a lasting legacy both on and off the pitch. Rüdiger’s good-natured interruption added to the celebratory mood after the match, showing the camaraderie and high spirits among the squad.

However, Endrick’s week was noteworthy not only for his on-field heroics but also for personal milestones off the pitch. Just days before his Champions League debut, Endrick married his long-time girlfriend, Gabriely Miranda. The wedding marked a significant moment in his life, and Endrick didn’t shy away from sharing some intimate details about his new life as a married man. During an episode of the Pod Delas podcast, Endrick revealed that he and Gabriely had drawn up a relationship contract with a few unconventional rules.

One of the more peculiar aspects of the contract is that Endrick and his wife must always say “I love you” to each other, no matter the circumstances. In addition, the couple has agreed not to respond to Instagram posts from people of the opposite sex an unusual but perhaps practical rule for a young couple navigating life in the spotlight. Lastly, the contract includes a strict prohibition against arguing in public, emphasizing the importance they place on maintaining a positive and respectful image.

These personal insights into Endrick’s life have only endeared him further to fans, who are seeing a side of the young star that goes beyond football. His openness and willingness to discuss his relationship reflect a maturity that extends beyond his years, and his ability to balance personal happiness with professional success is a testament to his grounded approach to life.

As Endrick continues to settle into life at Real Madrid, it’s clear that he is not just a player with extraordinary talent but also a person of remarkable character. His Champions League debut, combined with his personal milestones, marks the beginning of what looks to be a bright and promising future, both on and off the pitch. For Real Madrid fans, the arrival of Endrick signals the dawn of a new era, one where the club’s rich legacy is set to continue with the next generation of footballing talent leading the way.