Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi? Brazil and Real Madrid wonderkid Endrick reveals his choice of idol

Christiano Ronaldo And Lionel Messi have defined an entire generation of footballers, who deliver top performances week after week while continually rewriting the record books. As part of the next wave of young talent, Brazil and Real Madrid prodigy Endrik has now revealed which of the two legends he considers his idol.

A product of the Palmeiras academy, Endrick was signed by Real Madrid for €60 million at just 17 years oldwidely regarded as one of the best prospects of his generation. With a contract that he is tied to The whites until June 2030, the striker is now focusing on earning his place in Europe during his current spell at Olympique Lyon.

In an interview with The teamEndrick made his admiration clear when discussing his role model: “Cristiano Ronaldo is my number 1 idol. What I admire most is that at 40 years old he is still the hardest worker of all the others.“

In an era dominated by Messi and Ronaldo, it was the Portuguese superstar who left the deepest mark on Endrick, who also emphasized his identity as a true number 9 despite debate over his position. “He is almost retired, but has many more years to play. I hope he does,‘ declared the Brazilian.

Although he is not included in Carlo Ancelotti’s latest Brazil After a call-up, Endrick remains hopeful that he will one day share the World Cup podium with his idol. “Playing against Cristiano Ronaldo at the World Cup? That would be great. I hope it happens – and we win,he added.

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Endrick is chasing a place at the World Cup

The 2025-2026 season marked Endrick’s second year under contract with Real Madrid. only limited options (only three appearances in the first six months) left him on the fringes of Brazil’s plans with the 2026 World Cup approaching. As a result, the striker sought a temporary move, joining Lyon on a six-month loan deal after the French club paid $1.17 million to Madrid.

Speaking to the French outlet, Endrick explained how this move could help him realize his international ambitions. “I came here to be happy, to play. Going to the World Cup is a dream and, God willing, I will play in it. But here my mission is to play well, and if I do that at my club, I can earn a call up to the national team.,he declared.

So far, the move has paid off. Endrick played in four games for Lyon, scoring four goals and adding one assist, while earning two MVP awards in wins. With Ancelotti’s backing for the move, the 18-year-old has put himself firmly back in the conversation for what could be his first World Cup appearance.