Real Madrid prodigy disappointed by club’s shirt number decision | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s young star Endrick is reportedly upset after the club decided not to hand him the iconic number 9 shirt.

As per reports from SPORT, the decision has not gone down well with the Brazilian, who feels sidelined even before the season has fully kicked off.

Although it is not officially confirmed yet, strong reports from multiple sources indicate that Real Madrid have chosen Gonzalo Garcia to wear the number 9 shirt for the upcoming season.

This move has surprised many fans, not because Gonzalo is undeserving, but because it sends a strong message regarding Endrick’s place in the squad.

Decision after a strong performance

Gonzalo earned plenty of praise after his strong performances during the Club World Cup, which seemed to have played a big part in the club’s decision.

However, it also suggests that Endrick is being seen as a secondary option—just like last season.

According to journalist Alberto Pereiro, Endrick was visibly frustrated when the decision was shared in the locker room. Pereiro revealed,

Endrick is not happy with the decision. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“I was told that Endrick’s expression in the dressing room wasn’t the best. The thing is, to make one person happy, you have to make another person unhappy.

“Madrid has insisted that Endrick leave for another club, and he keeps saying no. No and no… And I think it’s a conversation we’ll have to have again in January,” said Pereiro.

A challenging season ahead for Endrick

At the moment, Endrick finds himself behind both Kylian Mbappe and Gonzalo in the pecking order, which likely means fewer minutes on the pitch.

Earlier hopes that a new manager like Xabi Alonso might change things have been dashed, especially after Endrick’s recent injury setback.

In Mbappe’s absence, Gonzalo stepped up and performed well enough to earn a permanent role in the squad.

This development leaves Endrick in a tough spot, with his future at the club becoming more uncertain as the season approaches. A crucial conversation about his role could now be on the cards in January.