Endrick: The Brazilian Football Prodigy America Can’t Ignore
Few football players are becoming as well-known as Endrick. Endrick Felipe Moreira de Sousa, better known by his moniker Endrick, was born in Brasília, Brazil, on July 21, 2006, and is being heralded as the soccer player of the future in Brazil. He’s already garnering media attention at the age of 18, being compared to football greats like Pelé, Ronaldo, and Neymar.
Endrick is a name you should be familiar with whether you’re a soccer fan in the US or are just starting out in the sport as a result of the growth of Major League Soccer (MLS) and international competitions like the FIFA World Cup.
Career Stats
Club Career Stats
| Club | Years | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Palmeiras | 2022–2024 | 66 | 18 |
| Real Madrid | 2024–Present | 16 | 1 |
| Total | — | 82 | 19 |
International Career Stats
| Team | Years | Caps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brazil U17 | 2022 | 4 | 5 |
| Brazil U23 | 2024–Present | 7 | 2 |
| Brazil (Senior) | 2023–Present | 14 | 3 |
| Total | — | 25 | 10 |
Early Years and Lowly Origins
Endrick’s tale is one of unadulterated skill, sacrifice, and tenacity. He was raised in a lower-middle-class household, with his father, Douglas Sousa, finding it difficult to provide for them. However, Endrick had always been a football fan. At the age of ten, videos of him dribbling past bigger children, juggling balls, and scoring incredible goals went popular on social media.
In order to expose Endrick’s skill, his father even posted highlights to YouTube. This was a wise decision that ultimately helped Palmeiras find the budding star.
Endrick at Palmeiras: A Star is Born
At the age of eleven, Endrick joined Palmeiras, one of Brazil’s most recognizable clubs. He immediately rose to the top of the young ranks, scoring 165 goals in 169 academy games. However, the 2022 Copinha (São Paulo Junior Football Cup), Brazil’s top young competition, was what really solidified his fame.
Endrick became the youngest player to score and lead his team to win at the age of 15, shocking spectators. His agility, unrivaled poise under duress, and strong left foot were too mature for his age.
He made his Palmeiras first-team debut in October 2022, making history as the youngest player to do so at the age of 16.
Worldwide Acknowledgment: The World Pays Attention
Top European teams, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, rushed to recruit Endrick as he burst onto the scene. Real Madrid signed him in December 2022 after fierce competition for an estimated €72 million, including variables, which is an incredible sum for a 16-year-old.
FIFA regulations prevent Endrick from formally joining Real Madrid until July 2024, when he turns 18. He keeps playing for Palmeiras until then, honing his craft in Brazil’s top division.
Why the U.S. Audience Should Care About Endrick
Soccer’s popularity in the United States is growing faster than ever. With events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup being co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, American fans are becoming more passionate and involved in global football culture.
Here’s why Endrick should be on every American soccer fan’s radar:
He’s Gen-Z’s Superstar: Endrick grew up with social media and understands its power. He connects with fans globally, including a rapidly growing U.S. audience.
MLS Future? With European and Brazilian stars like Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez playing in MLS, there’s always potential for future transfers. Imagine Endrick suiting up for LA Galaxy or Inter Miami in his late 20s?
Cultural Bridge: Endrick’s charisma and humble nature make him a relatable figure. As more Americans embrace international stars, he could become a household name.
Inspiration for Young Athletes: His rise from poverty to stardom mirrors the American Dream and is a motivational story for young U.S. players.
Playing Style: What Makes Endrick Special?
Endrick is a left-footed striker known for his pace, dribbling, and clinical finishing. Analysts praise his ability to:
Create chances in tight spaces
Score from inside and outside the box
Press defenders with intense energy
Stay calm during one-on-one situations
Despite being just 5’8″, he’s built like a tank — strong, agile, and fearless.
He reminds many of a young Ronaldo Nazário with hints of Romário’s finishing finesse and Neymar’s flair. A rare combination that the world sees once in a generation.
Records and Achievements So Far
Youngest player to debut for Palmeiras’ first team
Scored 3 goals in his first 5 matches
Top scorer of the 2022 Copinha with 6 goals in 7 matches
First Palmeiras player under 17 to score in a professional match
Signed by Real Madrid before even turning 17 – a testament to his prodigious potential
The Mental Game: Endrick’s Winning Attitude
While talent is one part of success, what sets Endrick apart is his mental strength. Coaches describe him as:
Mature beyond his years
Humble yet confident
Focused on long-term goals
His upbringing instilled a deep sense of discipline and gratitude. He often speaks about making his family proud and using football as a way to uplift others.
Endrick and Social Media: Building a Global Brand
Endrick isn’t just a footballer — he’s a brand in the making. With millions of followers on Instagram and TikTok, he shares training routines, inspirational messages, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his life.
This digital fluency makes him highly marketable — a key factor in attracting the attention of U.S. audiences and brands.
National Team Journey: Brazil’s Future No. 9?
Endrick has already made appearances for Brazil’s U17 and U20 teams. Analysts predict he will be a core player in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup — which, notably, will be held in the U.S.
Imagine watching Endrick live in Los Angeles or New York wearing the iconic Canarinho jersey? The buzz around this young phenom will be electric.
The Real Madrid Move: What It Means
When he joins Real Madrid in 2024, Endrick will be part of a new generation alongside talents like:
Vinícius Jr.
Rodrygo
Jude Bellingham
Madrid is investing heavily in youth, and Endrick is the crown jewel of that strategy. U.S. fans who follow European football will have front-row seats to his journey at one of the most prestigious clubs in the world.
Endrick’s Future: What’s Next?
By the time Endrick turns 21, he could:
Be Brazil’s starting striker in a World Cup
Win La Liga and UEFA Champions League
Become a Ballon d’Or nominee
Launch collaborations with global brands like Nike or Adidas (rumors suggest he’s close to a major endorsement)
For American fans, following Endrick now means witnessing greatness from the very beginning.
