Initially overlooked by Brazilian head coach Dorival Junior, Endrick has finally received the news confirming his return to Brazil next week.
Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes were the only Real Madrid players initially called up for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Set to face Colombia (March 21) and Argentina (March 26), the Seleção unveiled an impressive squad list. Despite being one of the most closely followed and highly rated young talents due to his performances with Real Madrid, Endrick was initially snubbed by his coach. Following the announcement of the first squad, the 18-year-old striker’s omission sparked outrage in the Brazilian media. “Leaving Endrick out of the Brazilian team reveals a mindset, a worldview, and a footballing vision. Fundamentally, a cowardly vision,” said journalist Juca Kfouri, for example.
Neymar clears the way
Coincidentally, Neymar Junior, the Brazilian star who was set to make his comeback to the national team after months of absence due to recurring injuries, has now withdrawn. Back at Santos, where he was rediscovering his love for football, the former Barcelona star suffered another thigh injury. In response, Dorival Junior quickly corrected his mistake and called up Endrick to take Neymar’s place. For the young Brazilian prodigy, this is fantastic news. Struggling for game time at Madrid, he now has a chance to fight for a place in the national team.
Instead of staying in the Spanish capital while 90% of the squad is away on international duty, Endrick is also heading back to his homeland, just like Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior. Considered one of the purest talents expected to achieve great things with the national team—and in world football— the former Palmeiras forward enjoys strong backing from football fans. Notably, in recent international breaks, Endrick was left out due to limited club minutes and fierce competition in the squad.
Updated Brazil squad
Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Bento (Al-Nassr), Lucas Perri (Lyon)
Defenders: Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal), Léo Ortiz (Flamengo), Marquinhos (PSG), Murillo (Nottingham Forest), Guilherme Arana (Atlético Mineiro), Vanderson (Monaco), Wesley (Flamengo), Alex Sandro (Flamengo)
Midfielders: André (Wolverhampton), Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle), Gerson (Flamengo), Joelinton (Newcastle), Matheus Cunha (Wolverhampton)
Forwards: Estêvão (Palmeiras), João Pedro (Brighton), Raphinha (Barcelone), Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Savinho (Manchester City), Vinícius Jr (Real Madrid), Endrick (Real Madrid).
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