Football “My story with Madrid began before I was born”: the weight Endrick carries when he arrives in Spain

Endrick arrives in Spain to join the ranks of Real Madrid. In the Iberian cast, they hope to repeat the story they lived with Vincius Junior, who is today one of the most decisive forwards on the planet, but who came directly from Flamengo when he was still young. Now, the 17-year-old forward, who came from Palmeiras. Despite his young age, he participated in the Copa América and actually started against Uruguay. Even though his performance that day was not the best: he only gave two good passes. The Scratch collective did not accompany him.

Leaving behind the bitter pill of the continental competition organized in the United States, which ended this Sunday, the striker gave an interview to L’Equipe. He reveals a curious situation that links him to the meringues. “My story with Real Madrid began before I was born. “My father wanted to call me Di Stéfano, but my mother refused,” he said. The striker has other ways to link up with his new team: “My father still has a photo and a framed diploma from a club academy in Brasilia. They are signs, it is as if this marriage was meant to happen. I have already been to Madrid twice. I have seen the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, I have been able to meet Ancelotti and see the faces of my future teammates.

“Vini will help me integrate. “He is an extraordinary player,” added Endrick. The new footballer is also delighted to play with Kylian Mbappé. “With his arrival, it looks like a video game team. I hope we become a group of friends. On the pitch, when you have Mbappé’s speed, Vini’s dribbling, Rodrygo’s talent, Bellingham’s inspiration, Modric’s technique. It’s the perfect mix. I hope to make history at this club.” he claimed.

Endrick’s statements caused a stir around the world. Even some Argentine media were surprised by the Brazilian’s father’s intention to name him after a former transandean player. “Endrick and the curious name his father wanted to give him, an Argentinian,” was the headline of TyC Sports.

The historical weight that the native of Taguatinga carries with his revelation is not minor. Alfredo Di Stéfano is one of the most important names in Real Madrid. A legend for the White House. He arrived in 1953, from the Millonarios of Colombia (he had already shone at River Plate), and remained there until 1964. During his 11 years at the white club, he added eight Liga titles, a Copa del Rey and five Champions Cups (the current Champions League). Then, from 2000 until his death, he was honorary president of the club.

In his active years, mainly in the late 1950s, he was considered the best player on the planet. By many, he has been described as the most outstanding in history, until the emergence of Pelé. Indeed, in Spain, some tend to place him above the Brazilian star. Although this statement has lost its force over the decades.