Brazilian teenager Endrick is at the start of what he hopes will be a long and successful career.
The 19-year-old crossed the Atlantic in 2024 when he completed his move to Real Madrid to join the club of his hero - and the player he wants to emulate.
That’s because, like so many of his generation, the former Palmeiras man grew up idolising Cristiano Ronaldo.
Endrick on his career path so far and the player he wants to emulate
Ronaldo made the move to the Premier League at the age of 18, so when Endrick had the opportunity to make a loan move in January, was he tempted to follow Ronaldo’s footsteps?
“Yes, there was interest from English clubs, and from Italy and Germany too,” the teenager tells FourFourTwo. “Some very good clubs showed interest, but it’s not necessary to mention names.
“I thank them for their interest. I have God in my life and when I heard about the English clubs that were interested, I didn’t hear God telling me it was the destination at that moment, and neither did my wife.
“When you get married, you know who’s really in charge! [Laughs] So it’s important to listen to her opinion. But when the name Lyon appeared, both my wife and I felt the touch of God.
“If one day I go to the Premier League, then it will not only be my decision, it will be something God places in my path.”
Growing up, there was one Premier League club that caught his attention.
“I had affection for Manchester United, because that’s where Cristiano Ronaldo played and achieved so much.
“Everyone watches the Premier League – it has excellent clubs, a lot of excitement and a lot of matches that are decided in the final moments.
“I’ve followed Ronaldo’s career closely and watched YouTube videos of him playing at Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and now Al Nassr.
“It doesn’t matter where he is, I’ll always follow him.”
