Just five weeks before the season began, Lyon was facing administrative relegation and a financial “firesale.”
Today, the narrative has shifted from survival to stardom, thanks to the winter arrival of 19-year-old Brazilian sensation Endrick.
After totaling just 99 minutes at Real Madrid this season, Endrick joined Lyon on loan in January to secure playing time ahead of this summer’s World Cup.
He became the youngest player to score a Ligue 1 hat-trick for Lyon, surpassing a 54-year-old record held by Bernard Lacombe.
In just seven games, he has netted five goals and leads the team in successful dribbles and shots on target.
For Endrick, the move is a strategic necessity. “If you don’t play well for your club, you can’t have a chance of playing for Brazil,” he told L’Equipe. National team legends like Cris believe Endrick’s mobility offers a unique edge that current strikers Gabriel Jesus and Richarlison lack.
Despite his “explosive” form, a recent red card against Nantes for a petulant kick out highlights the learning curve ahead. Lyon manager Paulo Fonseca noted that while Endrick is a “calibre” player, he must adapt to being the primary target for physical Ligue 1 defenders.
With Lyon now chasing Champions League qualification and domestic silverware, Endrick is proving to be the perfect heir to the club’s rich legacy of Brazilian icons.
