Endrick Under Pressure: Lyon Boss Fonseca Demands More After Mixed Form

Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca has publicly demanded more from Endrick, stating dissatisfaction with the Real Madrid loanee’s recent displays. The comments come as Lyon struggle through a nine-match winless run and the Brazil international’s early impact starts to fade.

Endrick, 19, moved to Lyon in January on a six-month loan from Real Madrid, seeking steady minutes before Brazil’s World Cup squad is chosen. The forward hoped Ligue 1 action would secure regular starts and maintain Brazil selection.

The forward exploded at first with four goals across his opening three Lyon matches. That spell included a hat-trick in a 5-2 victory over Metz, which made Endrick the youngest player to hit three goals in a single game for the club.

Since that Metz match, Endrick has scored only three times in six outings, mirroring Lyon’s long winless streak in all competitions. That downturn has increased attention on the forward’s form and attitude, especially given the high expectations around the Brazil international.

Endrick’s dip for Lyon contrasts with a bright display for Brazil days earlier. Coming off the bench in Orlando, Endrick helped the Selecao beat Croatia 3-1, winning a penalty and setting up Gabriel Martinelli for Brazil’s third goal.

His latest Lyon outing was less effective, as Endrick struggled during a goalless draw against Angers. That flat performance intensified scrutiny, especially with Lyon still searching for a first victory in nine matches and needing reliable attacking output.

Fonseca underlined that concern when speaking to the media. "I am not satisfied with how Endrick is playing, Fonseca told reporters on Friday. I'm not here to break players, but I expect more from a player like Endrick, and I think he has the obligation to do more."

Fonseca also referred to Endrick’s travel schedule between club and national duty. The coach said the forward mentioned fatigue after the trip from Orlando, yet still insisted on higher standards: "He said he was a bit tired from the journey, Fonseca said. But I think he has the responsibility to do more."

Endrick’s contribution remains important for both Lyon’s season and Brazil ambitions. With seven goals in nine Lyon appearances so far, the forward’s early surge and later slowdown highlight the pressure and expectations surrounding a teenager already involved at World Cup level.

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