Endrick Returning to Real Madrid as Lyon Chief Says 'Today, It’s Over' After Stunning Loan Spell
Olympique Lyonnais have officially confirmed that Endrick’s impressive loan spell in Ligue 1 has come to an end, with the Brazilian teenager set to return to Real Madrid this summer.
Lyon have confirmed Endrick will return to Real Madrid after an impressive loan spell featuring eight goals and eight assists.
The 19-year-old forward arrived in January on a short-term deal that did not include an option to buy. Despite quickly becoming one of Lyon’s standout performers during the second half of the season, the French club now accept that extending his stay will be extremely difficult.
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Lyon recruitment chief Matthieu Louis-Jean addressed the situation after the club’s final game of the campaign, a 4-0 defeat at home to Lens, and admitted the club would have loved to keep the Brazilian sensation longer.
"Yes, we would like to keep him, but for the moment, that seems very unlikely," he admitted. "It makes you want to extend his contract. Is it possible? That's another matter. It's been a very good loan for Endrick; he's had a great time here. He's been surprising, amazing in the way he's adapted. He already speaks French, which is incredible. He's a good lad."
Although his spell in France lasted only five months, Endrick made a huge impact at Groupama Stadium. The young attacker registered eight goals and eight assists in 21 appearances across all competitions, becoming one of Ligue 1’s most productive players in the second half of the season.
His performances played a major role in Lyon’s strong finish to the campaign, earning praise from supporters and club officials alike.
Louis-Jean highlighted how quickly the Brazilian adapted to life in France and praised both his talent and mentality.
"He brought us a lot in a very short time. He delivered what we expected of him. He's a young player who will improve, and I hope he goes to the World Cup and has a great World Cup. It was a good time together. Now, will it continue? Today, it's over, yes."
The Brazilian teenager had previously spoken openly about how much he enjoyed his time in Lyon, while refusing to rule out any possibility regarding his future.
Following a victory over Rennes earlier in the season, Endrick explained that he was taking things one step at a time and leaving his future in God’s hands. His connection with Lyon supporters was clear during his final appearance against Lens, when fans gave him a standing ovation after he was substituted.
Reflecting on his experience in France, Endrick said: "I take it one day at a time. Today was great, I'm very happy about that. I'm very happy here, there's a good team, a good staff, good teammates. I'm doing very well, I don't know what's going to happen. I'm always with God. Whatever God tells me, I will do. If I have to stay in Lyon, go to Madrid, I will do what God tells me. I'm going to wait to see what God tells me. But I'm very happy."
With Endrick now heading back to Madrid, Lyon are already focusing on preparations for next season and their upcoming Champions League qualifying campaign after finishing fourth in Ligue 1.
Louis-Jean confirmed that work has already begun behind the scenes alongside manager Paulo Fonseca and Benjamin Charier to strengthen the squad before the new season begins.
"We're anticipating it, we've already started working," he said. "It's going to be complicated because high-level matches are coming up very quickly. We've already started working with Paulo (Fonseca) and Benjamin (Charier) on players who could join us. We're going to digest this season, which has been very good for us; we're proud of what we've accomplished."
