Brazilian forward Endrick is set to join French Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais on a six-month loan from Real Madrid, running until the end of the 2025/26 season. The deal, finalized on December 22, 2025, will see Lyon cover 50% of Endrick’s salary, which amounts to just over €200,000 per month, and pay a loan fee of approximately €1 million. The agreement does not include an option to purchase, ensuring that Endrick remains a long-term prospect for Real Madrid.
After a challenging first half of the season with Real Madrid, where Endrick was rarely featured in the starting lineup, the young Brazilian will now have the chance to gain consistent playing time at Lyon under manager Paulo Fonseca. Endrick has played only 99 minutes across three appearances this season and struggled to establish himself despite being given Real Madrid’s iconic number 9 shirt. The move to France offers an opportunity for him to regain form, develop as a player, and showcase his talent at the senior level.
Loan Deal Summary :
- Player Name: Endrick
- Age: 18
- From Club: Real Madrid
- To Club: Olympique Lyonnais
- Loan Duration: 6 months (Winter 2025 – June 2026)
- Loan Fee: €1 million
- Salary Coverage: Lyon pays 50% (€200,000+ per month)
- Purchase Option: None
- Shirt Number: 9
- Previous Appearances (2025/26): 3 appearances, 99 minutes
- Manager at Lyon: Paulo Fonseca
- Purpose: Increased game time and player development
The loan agreement was structured carefully to provide mutual benefits for both clubs. Lyon will pay €1 million for the six-month loan, including 50% of Endrick’s wages. Real Madrid retains full control over the player and sees this as a chance for him to develop in a competitive environment. Endrick is expected to wear the number 9 shirt for Lyon, stepping into a squad that has recently lost Alexandre Lacazette and Georges Mikautadze and is looking to strengthen its attacking options for the second half of the season.
Endrick has expressed eagerness for more playing time, especially with the upcoming World Cup. The move to Lyon provides a platform for him to impress both at club level and in the eyes of Brazil’s national team coach Carlo Ancelotti. Limited opportunities at Real Madrid—just a single La Liga appearance and one Champions League outing—prompted the decision to pursue a temporary move to France, where he can play consistently and regain confidence.
Real Madrid’s Perspective on the Loan
Real Madrid remains fully committed to Endrick’s long-term development. Club officials view him as a future world-class player and want to ensure he receives meaningful minutes on the pitch. Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid’s manager, highlighted that Endrick has been ready to play but opportunities have been limited due to match circumstances and the team’s immediate competitive needs. Alonso emphasized that patience is key and Endrick’s time at Real Madrid will come, making this loan move a strategic step in his progression.
Lyon expects Endrick to become a vital addition to the squad in the second half of the season. The club sees him as a high-potential talent who can fill the gap left by departing forwards and contribute goals and creativity in attack. Paulo Fonseca will have the responsibility of integrating Endrick into the team and maximizing his performance in Ligue 1.
This loan move is significant for Endrick’s growth. Regular competitive minutes in a top European league like Ligue 1 will allow him to adapt to senior football, build confidence, and prepare for future challenges at Real Madrid. If successful, the loan spell could serve as a springboard for a regular role at Los Blancos or establish him as a top talent in European football.
FAQs :
Q1: What is the duration of Endrick’s loan to Lyon?
The loan will last six months, until the end of the 2025/26 season.
Q2: Does the loan include an option to buy?
No, Lyon cannot purchase him at the end of the loan.
Q3: How much will Lyon pay in fees and salary?
Lyon will pay €1 million for the loan and cover 50% of his wages, over €200,000 per month.
Q4: Why did Endrick leave Real Madrid temporarily?
Due to limited playing time at Real Madrid and needs regular minutes to develop his career and increase his chances of national team selection.
Q5: Who is managing Endrick at Lyon?
Paulo Fonseca is the current manager responsible for integrating him into the team.
Q6: How has Endrick performed this season at Real Madrid?
He has played 99 minutes in three appearances and struggled to secure a consistent place in the starting lineup.
Q7: Is this a permanent move for him?
No, the loan is temporary, and he remains a Real Madrid player with his contract running until 2030.
