Brazilian wonder kid Endrick has chosen Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi.
Endrick, a Brazilian adolescent sensation slated to join Real Madrid next summer, recently selected Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi.
On November 17 (Friday), the 17-year-old earned his senior debut for Brazil against Colombia in a FIFA World Cup qualifier, which the Selecao lost 2-1. Brazil’s next qualifier will be against Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, on November 21 (Tuesday).
The teenager was asked to select between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo before the game. According to him (via GOAL):
“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 the video game. Messi is a great player, but I’m more of a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo. Now I’m seeing Messi up close, it’s going to be wonderful.”
Endrick also stated that he has always wanted to play for Real Madrid and will be honored to wear the same shirt as Cristiano Ronaldo. He stated (as reported by the Daily Mail):
“My dream since I was little, has always been to play for Real Madrid. Cristiano Ronaldo is one of my biggest idols. So it is a great pride to know that I will wear the same shirt he wore.”
Real Madrid and Palmeiras have already agreed on a €60 million deal to sign the teenager, according to Carlo Ancelotti. After turning 18 in July, the Brazilian attacker will join Real Madrid next summer.
How Did Endrick Feel About His Debut For Brazil?
With his performance against Colombia, Endrick became the fourth youngest player in history (17 years and 118 days) to make his senior debut for the Brazilian football team. In the 80th minute, he came on in place of Barcelona winger Raphinha.
Endrick is preceded on the list by Brazilian giants Pele (16 years and 257 days), Edu (16 years and 303 days), and Coutinho (17 years and 28 days). In response to his Selecao debut, he stated (via the Daily Mail):
“It has always been an ultimate dream to wear the Brazil jersey. Things have happened very quickly in my life, and this is another dream come true. I can only thank my family, agents, and Palmeiras, who have always believed in me.”
The Brazilian wonderkid presently plays at Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras, where he has made 56 senior appearances across several tournaments. For the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A team, he has 15 goals and two assists.