Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi? When Real Madrid new signing Endrick named his favorite
Real Madrid’s newest addition, Endrick expressed his preference between modern legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in November last year. The Brazilian forward chose Ronaldo as his favorite but added that Messi was the best in the world.
Endrick, who joined Real Madrid this summer, was still with Palmeiras when he made the comments, but he had already agreed to a move to Madrid in 2022. His appreciation for Ronaldo is certainly fitting, as he will aim to emulate the Portuguese great in the iconic white jersey.
The 18-year-old, however, was also quick to praise Lionel Messi. The two players faced each other in November when Messi’s Argentina defeated Endrick’s Brazil, with La Albiceleste winning the clash 1-0 at the Maracana. Before that game, Endrick said (via ESPN):
"Messi is a great player, but I’m more of a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo. Messi is phenomenal. He’s very good, the best in the world again. I just want to enjoy the moment of being able to play against him, being in the same stadium as him, looking at him up close. I only saw him in video games. Now I’m seeing Messi up close, it’s going to be wonderful."
Ronaldo, who is currently playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, remains in impressive form even at the age of 39. Although his performance at the Euros in Germany was not his best, the former Manchester United star will be eager to return to his club and continue his fine form.
In contrast, Messi recently won the Copa America in Argentina, adding to his already bulging trophy cabinet. Despite currently dealing with an ankle injury, he is expected to return to action with Inter Miami soon.
Carlo Ancelloti impressed with Endrick’s performance on his Real Madrid debut
In their first pre-season match on July 31, Real Madrid suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to AC Milan, with Samuel Chukwueze’s second-half goal securing the victory for the Italian side. Despite the defeat, Carlo Ancelotti would have been pleased with the performances of the young players.
Among the standout talents, Endrick’s highly anticipated debut drew considerable attention. The 18-year-old, who joined Real Madrid after a less impressive Copa America with Brazil, showed glimpses of his potential during the friendly.
Ancelotti was notably impressed by Endrick’s performance, praising his pace and ability in tight spaces. He said (via ESPN):
He [Endrick] is someone who has something truly special. He’s very fast, very dangerous in tight spaces, has the ability to turn with speed in little space, very agile in getting himself free and all these qualities he has means he’s a great talent. It’s rare to see a player with these types of characteristics."
The formidable Real Madrid squad is not yet at full strength, with key players like Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr., and the most recent addition Kylian Mbappe still to return to training. They will next face their old foes Barcelona on August 4, followed by a clash against Chelsea on August 7.