MADRID – Real Madrid is reportedly “worried” after learning the full extent of young Brazilian striker Endrick’s injury setback, which could see him sidelined for up to three months. The fresh injury concern, a recurrence of a hamstring issue, emerged after a brief return to training following an initial injury sustained towards the end of Real Madrid’s 2024-25 La Liga season.
This prolonged absence means Endrick missed the entirety of the recent FIFA Club World Cup and will now be playing catch-up at the start of the new campaign. His initial recovery was already protracted, and this latest relapse means a cautious approach will be taken for his return, potentially extending his time out of contention even further.
Endrick’s injury, combined with Kylian Mbappé’s battle with gastroenteritis during the Club World Cup, left new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso without a recognized senior striker. This forced Alonso to turn to 21-year-old Castilla forward Gonzalo García, who seized the opportunity with both hands.
García proved to be a revelation at the tournament, finishing as the top scorer with four goals and one assist in six games. His impressive performances have put him in contention for a permanent spot in Alonso’s senior squad. A decision on García’s future was expected after preseason, but Endrick’s extended absence might now prompt Alonso to block any potential loan move for the young Spaniard.
Gonzalo García’s emergence has already sparked speculation about Endrick’s own long-term future at the Santiago Bernabéu. Endrick struggled for minutes last season as an understudy to Mbappé, and this new injury further complicates his path to regular first-team action.
Manager Alonso is reportedly keen on acquiring a new striker to provide an alternative to Mbappé, ideally an experienced, physical forward in the mold of Joselu. However, García’s breakout summer has now positioned him as a strong candidate to fill that void.
