It is a massive night at the Estadio El Prado as Endrick has finally been handed his first start of the 2025/26 season for Real Madrid.
With head coach Xabi Alonso rotating his squad for the Copa del Rey Round of 32 clash against third-tier CF Talavera, the Brazilian wonderkid is spearheading an experimental attack that includes Kylian Mbappé and academy star Gonzalo García.
Match Update: Talavera vs. Real Madrid
The match is currently in progress (9:15 PM GMT), and Real Madrid took a commanding lead into the break.
Halftime Score: Talavera 0 – 2 Real Madrid
The Goals: Kylian Mbappé (41'): Converted a penalty after a handball by Talavera's Marcos Moreno.
Manu Farrando (45+1' OG): A devastating own goal just before the whistle gave Madrid a cushion.
Endrick's Impact: While he hasn't found the net yet, Endrick has been at the center of the action,
drawing multiple fouls and earning a yellow card for Talavera's Edu Gallardo early in the first half.
Why This Start Matters
This isn't just a routine cup appearance; it's a pivotal moment for Endrick’s career in Madrid.
Breaking the "Drought": Despite his talent, Endrick has struggled for minutes this season. This start is his chance to prove he belongs in Alonso's long-term plans.
The Lyon Rumors: Reports have intensified this week suggesting that Endrick could be heading to Lyon on a six-month loan in January to find regular playing time. Tonight could be a "farewell" performance or a "stay" statement.
The Mbappé Connection: Interestingly, Alonso chose to start Mbappé alongside him. The Frenchman is chasing Cristiano Ronaldo's record for goals in a calendar year (needing 3 more to hit 59), but his presence gives Endrick a world-class partner to combine with.
Real Madrid's Experimental XI
Alonso's lineup is a mix of youth and experience, forced partly by a massive injury list:
Defense: David Jiménez, Dean Huijsen, Álvaro Carreras, Fran García.
Midfield: Arda Güler, Dani Ceballos, Franco Mastantuono.
Attack: Gonzalo García, Kylian Mbappé, Endrick.
Note: Due to RFEF rules, Madrid must keep at least seven "first-team" players on the pitch at all times.
With Mastantuono and Gonzalo registered as Castilla players, Alonso is walking a tactical tightrope with his substitutions.