The long-speculated loan move for Endrick Felipe is finally complete. Real Madrid has formally agreed to send the talented striker to Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais (OL) on a straight loan deal until the end of the current 2025/2026 season.
Duration: Until June 2026 (End of the season)
Terms: A straight loan with NO option to buy. Real Madrid remains firmly committed to Endrick's long-term future at the Bernabéu.
Arrival Date: Endrick is expected to join the Lyon squad for training on December 26, 2025.
Debut Date: He will be officially presented on January 1st and could make his competitive debut as early as January 3rd against Monaco.
Why the Move is Happening
The loan is a strategic decision driven by the intense competition for places in Real Madrid's attack:
1.Guaranteed Minutes: Since his arrival in the summer of 2024, Endrick has struggled for minutes under coach Xabi Alonso, making only two appearances across all competitions this season (totaling 22 minutes). With players like Kylian Mbappé, VinÃcius Júnior, and Rodrygo Goes dominating the forward spots, Endrick's development was at risk of stagnating.
2.European Adaptation: Playing regularly in Ligue 1 will provide the rigorous, high-level competition Endrick needs to adapt to the physical and technical demands of European football before returning to Spain.
3.World Cup Goal: Crucially, the move will allow Endrick to play consistently, making him visible and match-fit for the Brazilian national team coach, Carlo Ancelotti, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Lyon Factor
Lyon manager Paulo Fonseca reportedly played a key role in the deal, personally convincing the Brazilian prodigy that he would be an immediate key figure in their plans. With OL facing a recent injury to forward Malick Fofana, Endrick is expected to be an almost guaranteed starter, giving him the perfect platform to shine.
This loan move is a clear sign that Real Madrid retains high hopes for their Brazilian investment, choosing to prioritize his development over his immediate presence in Madrid.
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