Olympique Lyonnais explored the possibility of bringing Endrick back for a second loan spell this summer, but the idea never developed beyond an initial approach. Although the Brazilian striker enjoyed a positive relationship with the club during his previous stay, Real Madrid and the player made it clear that his priority remains earning a place at the Santiago Bernabéu under José Mourinho.
Endrick joined Lyon on a six-month loan from Real Madrid during the second half of last season. The agreement came after lengthy negotiations between all parties, with the Brazilian convinced that regular playing time in Ligue 1 could strengthen his chances of representing Brazil at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Lyon presented the project as the perfect environment for his development, and the young forward accepted the challenge by moving to the French club in January.
His spell in France produced mixed results on the pitch. While Endrick showed flashes of the talent that made him one of the world’s most exciting young strikers, he struggled to consistently deliver goals and decisive performances. Nevertheless, those inside Lyon were highly impressed by his professionalism, commitment, and rapid adaptation to the dressing room. Coaches and teammates appreciated both his work ethic and his willingness to integrate into the squad despite arriving midway through the campaign.
Because of that positive experience, Lyon’s sporting department did not completely abandon the idea of working with Endrick again. Club officials believed that a full season rather than a six-month loan would allow the Brazilian to settle properly and demonstrate his true potential. Qualification for the UEFA Champions League would undoubtedly have strengthened Lyon’s position, but sporting director Matthieu Louis-Jean still decided to explore the possibility regardless of the circumstances.
The French club therefore contacted Real Madrid to determine whether another loan agreement could be negotiated. However, as Lyon had already suggested publicly in recent weeks, there was little optimism that such a deal could happen. The response ultimately confirmed those expectations, with Real Madrid unwilling to reopen discussions over another temporary departure at this stage of the summer transfer window.
For Endrick himself, the objective has not changed. The 20-year-old remains fully focused on establishing himself at Real Madrid. After gaining valuable experience in France, he now wants to fight for minutes in Spain and convince José Mourinho that he deserves a role in the first-team squad. His determination to succeed at one of the world’s biggest clubs played a significant role in Lyon’s unsuccessful attempt to secure his return.
🚨💣 BREAKING: Endrick WANTS TO STAY AT REAL MADRID, despite the difficulty of getting minutes.
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) July 25, 2026
But, at Real Madrid they DON'T RULE OUT A POSSIBLE DEPARTURE THIS SUMMER. @Rodra10_97 @espn pic.twitter.com/PXK8U1gLMA
That said, Endrick’s situation is still one to watch as the transfer window progresses. Much will depend on Mourinho’s plans and the competition for places in Madrid’s attacking department. If opportunities appear limited during the final weeks of the market, Real Madrid could still reassess the youngster’s immediate future. For now, though, the club’s intention is to keep him in the Spanish capital.
Meanwhile, Lyon continue searching for a new centre-forward before the start of their Champions League campaign. Having accepted that Endrick will not be returning, the French side has shifted its attention toward alternative targets. One of the leading names under consideration is Loïs Openda, who could become the attacking reinforcement Lyon hope will lead their frontline during the upcoming season. Whether that deal is completed remains to be seen, but the club is working to strengthen its squad before the transfer window closes.
