Endrick had to be patient in his first World Cup, taking minutes off the bench rather than in the spotlight, but the 19-year-old Brazilian forward said on Thursday he was «at peace» with coach Carlo Ancelotti’s decisions.
The Real Madrid forward did not play in Brazil’s opening match against Morocco, played 26 minutes against Haiti, played against Scotland in the final stages and played 45 minutes against Japan.
Fans have called for Endrick to be given a bigger role since the start of the tournament, but ahead of Sunday’s match against Norway the teenager praised Ancelotti, who also managed him at Real Madrid, for putting the team above individuals.
“He won’t do what’s best for me, he’ll do what’s best for the team,” Endrick said.
READ | Lucas Paqueta to miss Brazil-Norway 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash
“He’s not afraid to make the tough decisions; he does what he thinks is right, and things happen. It’s like God is watching over him. Because no matter what Carlo does, everything will be fine.
“When the manager tells me to do something, I don’t look back; I just do what he asks.”
When asked if the uncertainty about his playing time would affect him, Endrick said he remained calm.
«I think I’ll sleep like a baby,» he said. “I will really have peace because before I go to sleep, I think the most important thing is what I do: say my prayers, talk to God and trust that things will happen at the right time.”
Endrick said being part of Brazil’s 26-man World Cup squad at the age of 19 was already an important milestone.
«I’m very grateful to be here; for me, being part of this team and participating in a World Cup is a victory in itself,» he said.
«I am very well prepared for this moment, but there are 26 players and we are all waiting for our opportunity. The most important thing is to be ready when that opportunity arises.»
Endrick said his previous work with Ancelotti at Real Madrid had helped him understand the Italian’s methods.
“He was my first manager when I arrived in Europe. For me, having him as my first manager was one of the best experiences I’ve had in my career,” Endrick said.
«In my first season with (Ancelotti) at Real, I played a lot. It took a few minutes here and there, but I was in action in almost every game. He told me to keep calm, that my time would come.»
Endrick pointed to Gabriel Martinelli’s goal off the bench in Brazil’s last match as evidence that Ancelotti’s team management could pay off.
«The manager is one of the best coaches in the world; he knows exactly what to do,» he said. “I feel very comfortable with him and always follow his advice.”
Published on July 3, 2026
