Alarm bells in Madrid’s preseason

Real Madrid has been dealt an unexpected blow just weeks before the league kicks off. Young Brazilian star Endrick, who was generating excitement ahead of his official debut, will be sidelined for 8 to 10 weeks after suffering a recurrence of the same hamstring injury that had already kept him out since May. According to Marca, this setback throws a wrench into the club’s plans to integrate him smoothly into the first team.

The original injury occurred on May 18 against Sevilla, and although Endrick was nearing the final stage of recovery, a wrong move during a training session in the U.S. set off alarm bells. The medical report leaves no doubt: same muscle, same problem.

Is it Gonzalo García’s moment?

Endrick’s absence might have an immediate consequence: a clear opening for Gonzalo García. The academy product turned heads during the Club World Cup, showing flair, confidence, and the ability to take defenders on. Initially, he was expected to split time between Castilla and occasional first-team training, but that plan could change fast.

With the UEFA Super Cup and LaLiga kickoff looming, Carlo Ancelotti may be tempted to throw Gonzalo into the mix as a direct attacking option. The pressure will be enormous—but so is the Spanish youngster’s talent. Could this be the unexpected breakout of the season?

A race against the clock for Endrick

The idea was to slowly ease Endrick into European competition starting in August. Now, he’ll have to focus on a long rehab process that could keep him out until mid-September or even October. Real Madrid will prioritize his long-term fitness, refusing to take any risks with such a valuable asset.

In the meantime, the club faces a key decision: wait patiently for Endrick’s return, or fast-track Gonzalo’s rise? What looked like a quiet preseason now has everyone at Valdebebas watching closely.