Real Madrid hold Endrick back from Schalke friendly as Brazil striker follows recovery plan

Real Madrid have left Endrick out of their squad for Sunday’s friendly against Schalke in Germany as the Brazil forward continues an individual programme in Madrid.

The 19-year-old is working separately during the final stage of the Spanish club’s pre-season preparations, with the aim of avoiding further injury problems and reaching full fitness before the new campaign begins.

According to Arancha Rodriguez of Spanish radio station COPE, Endrick remains in the Spanish capital while he follows the tailored plan. His absence means he will not travel with Real Madrid for their final warm-up match before the start of the season.

Real Madrid are taking a cautious approach because Endrick previously suffered a hamstring injury that kept him out of competitive action for an extended period. The club are managing his return to full training carefully, particularly after the striker represented Brazil at the 2026 World Cup and amid the increased workload during the closing phase of pre-season.

Endrick’s future has also been the subject of discussion this summer. A number of clubs have reportedly shown interest in signing him on loan, but Real Madrid have ultimately decided to keep the Brazilian forward at the club.

That decision was made at the request of manager Jose Mourinho, while the coaching staff continue to focus on improving Endrick’s physical condition and ensuring he is properly prepared for the demands of the new season.

The decision to leave Endrick in Madrid is therefore understood to be part of a wider fitness strategy rather than an indication that he has fallen out of favour. Real Madrid want to avoid rushing the forward back into action following his previous hamstring problem, especially after his involvement with Brazil and the demanding training schedule currently being used by the squad.

Sunday’s meeting with Schalke represents the final opportunity for Real Madrid to test their preparations in a friendly before competitive football begins. Endrick will not be involved in that match, but he will continue his work away from the travelling group in Madrid.

The club’s stance also brings temporary clarity to the uncertainty surrounding his next step. Despite loan interest from other teams, Real Madrid intend to retain the forward, with Mourinho supporting that position as the player works towards full readiness.

For now, Endrick’s priority is completing his individual programme and returning to full training without suffering another setback. Real Madrid’s decision to exclude him from the trip to Germany reflects their preference for a measured recovery as they prepare for the new campaign.