Endrick Reveals How Bellingham and Modrić Became His Real Madrid Mentors

"Modrić was the player who impressed me most at Real Madrid: 100%." Those are the words of Endrick — the 19-year-old Brazilian sensation currently lighting up Ligue 1 while on loan with Lyon — as he reflects on a challenging first campaign at the Bernabéu that would have overwhelmed many young players.

In an exclusive conversation with The Guardian, the promising forward opened up about his experiences inside one of football's most demanding and star-studded locker rooms. What he discovered surprised him.

Bellingham welcomed the teenager with open arms

Endrick joined Madrid in 2024 at just 17 years old, parachuting into a roster filled with elite talent despite lacking a common language and every chance of getting lost in the shuffle. Jude Bellingham ensured that never happened. "He made me feel at home at the club. My English wasn't very good, but he talked to me, attempted some Spanish, stayed close by and offered guidance," Endrick recalled.

The Brazilian teenager had formed certain expectations about the English star before his arrival. Reality proved completely different. "He was nothing like I imagined. He's a phenomenal player and an equally phenomenal person, particularly when it comes to being a friend." From a young player adjusting to a new country and unfamiliar language, those words carry significant meaning.

A 40-year-old veteran teaching by example

While Bellingham smoothed the social adjustment, it was Luka Modrić who truly influenced Endrick's development as a footballer. "He taught me so much during my first season. Not only during training sessions, but in actual matches as well. It was like attending a football masterclass."

What resonated most with Endrick wasn't merely Modrić's exceptional skill — it was his unwavering dedication. "He was 40 years old and incredibly fit. He trained daily without fail. Even when he wasn't in the match squad, he'd come to the training ground and put in additional individual work." For a teenager still learning what elite professional football truly requires, witnessing that commitment firsthand proved invaluable.

"He was among the most remarkable individuals I've encountered in football," Endrick stated. Strong words. Well-deserved.

Currently with Lyon, Endrick has registered seven goals and six assists in all competitions — statistics indicating his loan spell is achieving exactly what Madrid envisioned. According to reports, Los Blancos are eager to recall him to the Spanish capital for next season. Should that materialize, he'll return as a considerably more mature player than when he departed — and with crystal-clear understanding of the expectations within that distinguished dressing room.