There's no room for everyone at Real Madrid. The competition in attack is fierce, and Xabi Alonso is clear that he can't give away minutes to anyone.
No matter how promising Endrick may be, he isn't part of the immediate plans. His role as the third striker behind Mbappé and Gonzalo doesn't guarantee him continuity. That, for such a young player, can be a hindrance to his development.
The emergence of academy product Gonzalo has been decisive. The Spanish striker has earned his place through hard work and goals. That has closed the door to Endrick, who needs playing time.
They know it at the white club. That's why they've looked for a solution that benefits all parties.
Marseille: the chosen destination
Florentino Pérez has made the final decision. Endrick will play next season on loan at Olympique de Marseille. It will be a one-year loan, with no purchase option.
Real Madrid wants to keep absolute control over the player. But it needs him to get minutes, to gain experience, to show everything he's been hinting at for years.
Marseille is a destination that's well liked in Valdebebas. It's a historic club, with demands, pressure, and a competitive league. In addition, he'll have guaranteed minutes.
There, he'll be able to show if he's ready to take on the challenge of wearing Real Madrid's jersey in the future.
Xabi Alonso gives the green light
Real Madrid's coach has been key in this decision. Xabi Alonso wants to avoid a case like Reinier's, a young talent lost due to a lack of continuity.
In his squad plan, Endrick would barely have a role. His place would be on the bench, waiting for an opportunity that probably wouldn't come. At 18, it's not time to wait, but to play.
The former Palmeiras player has already been informed. He accepts the loan with ambition. He wants to return to Real Madrid in 2026 as a reality, not a promise.

Florentino trusts this experience will allow him to grow. That it will take him away from the media spotlight that, at times, has weighed too heavily on his life.
A step back... to take two forward
Endrick won't make his debut this season with Real Madrid. It's a symbolic setback, but a logical step from a sporting point of view. Sometimes, maturing away from the spotlight is the best recipe for success.
In Marseille, Endrick will have what he can't find in Madrid right now: minutes, responsibility, and the chance to lead a project.
The goal is clear: for him to return more developed. As happened with Vinícius and his time at Castilla. Or Rodrygo, who spent a year adapting before breaking out.
Endrick is following in their footsteps. But he'll do it from France. Florentino's bet on him doesn't change, it's just postponed.