Endrick ends break early as Brazil striker seeks fast start under Mourinho at Real Madrid

Endrick has cut short his summer holiday and reported back to Real Madrid ahead of schedule in a clear attempt to impress new coach Jose Mourinho, taking a different approach to Brazil team-mate Vinicius Junior, who has stuck to his full rest period.

The 19-year-old forward unexpectedly appeared at the club’s Valdebebas training base on Wednesday, two days earlier than planned, having originally been scheduled to return on 31 July alongside Vinicius following Brazil’s elimination from the World Cup in the last 16 against Norway.

His early arrival came as Mourinho received a wider boost to his pre-season plans, with Antonio Rudiger also rejoining the squad and successfully passing medical checks. The Germany defender and Endrick both completed their initial tests before stepping back into group work.

Denzel Dumfries, who checked in at Valdebebas on Tuesday, took part in his first full training session with the team on Wednesday, further swelling the numbers available to Mourinho as he builds towards the new campaign.

Surprise return underscores Endrick’s intent

Spanish newspaper Sport described Endrick’s early comeback as the biggest surprise of the week for Real Madrid staff, given the pre-agreed schedule that followed his international commitments with Brazil.

By voluntarily cutting his holiday by two full days and returning to Madrid before any obligation to do so, the striker is signalling his determination to earn Mourinho’s trust from the very first session of pre-season.

Endrick is understood to be fully aware that this summer could prove decisive for his career trajectory. After a highly successful loan spell at Olympique Lyon, during which he rediscovered both his form and confidence in front of goal, he now wants to demonstrate that he merits a place in Real Madrid’s new-look project.

Competition intensifies in reshaped attack

The forward’s push for a permanent role comes at a time of change in Real Madrid’s attacking department. Gonzalo Garcia is close to joining Fulham, while a loan move for Franco Mastantuono is being seriously considered by the club.

At the same time, Real Madrid have brought in direct competition for Endrick in the shape of Yan Diomande, a player of similar age and profile who will be vying for the same attacking positions in Mourinho’s squad.

Although Endrick will not be ready in time to feature in Saturday’s friendly against Fiorentina, his objective is already clearly defined: to accelerate his fitness work and accumulate as many minutes as possible during the remainder of pre-season, in the hope of convincing Mourinho that he deserves a prominent role when the competitive fixtures begin.