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Brazilian wonderkid Endrick has officially concluded his spell in Ligue 1 with a heartfelt message to Lyon supporters, marking the end of a memorable chapter in his young career. After rediscovering his spark in France, the 19-year-old is now set to return to Real Madrid for what promises to be a defining season at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu.

Endrick shares emotional farewell with Lyon fans

The teenager confirmed his departure from Lyon after completing a six-month loan from Real Madrid. In a touching video message, Endrick reflected on his personal and professional growth in France following a challenging period in Spain, where he found regular playing time hard to come by. His goodbye coincided with a standing ovation from the crowd at Groupama Stadium during Lyon’s final Ligue 1 encounter against Lens — a testament to the strong rapport he built with the fans in just half a year.

In his moving statement, Endrick likened his journey to the club’s mascot, the lion. “In Brazil, when someone faces a tough time, we often say they must ‘kill a lion every day.’ For several months, I went through an experience no athlete should endure. But I decided I wouldn’t kill a lion — I would become one. Here, I found what I needed to regain my strength, to follow my instincts, to attack like a lion, to defend my family who stood by me, and to honour those who welcomed me so warmly,” he said.

Success in France inspires ‘film’ comparison

The loan spell turned out to be hugely beneficial for all involved. Endrick registered eight goals and eight assists in just 21 appearances — a stellar contribution that steadied Lyon’s campaign and earned them a fourth-place finish in Ligue 1. The young star admitted that the experience was so impactful that it could easily be the subject of a film, highlighting how much he relished his time away from the intense spotlight of Madrid.

He added: “Months of anxiety turned into months filled with happiness, victories, and valuable lessons. I made new friendships, strengthened old ones, and learned that home is wherever we are with the people we love and who love us back. That’s why this time spent with them — and with you — would certainly make a great movie.”

Heading back to Madrid as a ‘lion’

Although Endrick clearly developed a deep affection for Lyon, his loan agreement means a return to Real Madrid is inevitable. Reports indicate he will soon work under the returning Jose Mourinho, who is expected to take charge at the Bernabeu once again. The forward acknowledged that even though his heart remains in Lyon, his journey must continue in Spain — now enriched with greater maturity and experience.

“Sadly… a lion cannot stay in one place,” Endrick remarked. “I must say goodbye and embark on a return journey that will be much longer, as I leave with far more baggage than I arrived with. And even when this journey ends, I’ll carry this city with me forever — in my heart and in my memories. Every time I see the smile of my son, whom God blessed our family with here, I’ll remember Lyon. Thank you for everything — you will always have a place in my heart.”

World Cup ambitions and Bernabeu return

Endrick’s return to Madrid comes at an opportune moment, as he has also been included in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for the upcoming World Cup. His rejuvenated form in Ligue 1 has earned him a guaranteed place in the Selecao lineup, and he will aim to carry that momentum into football’s biggest stage before joining Real Madrid’s pre-season preparations.

While Lyon now face the challenge of replacing his attacking influence ahead of their Champions League qualifiers, Real Madrid fans are eagerly awaiting the arrival of a more polished and confident version of Endrick. The teenager has often said that his future rests in God’s hands, but for now, his path leads straight back to the Bernabeu — where he will strive to prove that he truly embodies the ‘lion’ he became during his remarkable stint in France.