Endrick's Real Madrid career has rarely followed a straightforward path, and the 19-year-old Brazilian forward now finds himself facing another challenge ahead of the new season.
What's at stake for Endrick?
Endrick has repeatedly had to fight for opportunities, and that battle looks set to continue under Jose Mourinho.
The teenager struggled for regular minutes during his first season under Carlo Ancelotti, but demonstrated his efficiency in front of goal by scoring seven times and adding one assist.
A turning point for Endrick
His second campaign began in difficult circumstances after an injury disrupted his pre-season, and Xabi Alonso showed greater confidence in Gonzalo Garcia, leaving Endrick short of opportunities.
The club arranged a winter loan move to Lyon, which proved to be exactly what the Brazilian needed, as he finished the second half of the season with eight goals and eight assists.
Limited opportunities at the World Cup
Endrick's momentum has stalled once again during the World Cup, with the Brazilian featuring for just 34 minutes during the group stage as Ancelotti preferred other attacking options.
Endrick has been restricted to brief substitute appearances against Haiti and Scotland, leaving questions over how much involvement he will have during the knockout rounds.
What comes next for Endrick?
Once the tournament ends, another challenge awaits at Real Madrid, with new manager Mourinho informing the club that he would like an additional striker capable of offering a more traditional penalty-box presence.
While signing a new centre-forward is not considered an urgent priority, there is a growing possibility that Real Madrid could instead promote academy product Gonzalo into that position.
Real Madrid still believe in Endrick, viewing him as a key long-term signing, but the Brazilian's opportunities may be reduced with Gonzalo's emergence.
Endrick may find more minutes on the right side of the attack while Rodrygo continues recovering from injury, and additional opportunities could arise if highly rated youngster Franco Mastantuono leaves on loan.
The message is clear for Endrick: his talent has never been questioned, but earning a consistent place in Real Madrid's squad will once again require patience, resilience, and the ability to seize every opportunity that comes his way.