Mason Greenwood's Marseille enquire about Endrick as Real Madrid star left 'frustrated' at lack of game time under Xabi Alonso

Olympique Marseille have officially enquired about signing Real Madrid’s rising star Endrick on loan in January, according to ESPN Brasil. The Ligue 1 outfit, home to former Manchester United star Greenwood, are keen to strengthen their attack with the Brazilian teenager, who has found opportunities hard to come by in Spain. Since returning from an early-season injury, Endrick has not played a single competitive minute for Alonso’s side, prompting speculation that he could seek game time elsewhere to boost his development and World Cup hopes.

Endrick’s lack of involvement has become a significant talking point in Madrid and Brazil alike. The youngster has now gone five months without seeing any playing time — an unfamiliar situation for a player once seen as a generational talent at Palmeiras. Sources close to Endrick insist there is no fallout with Alonso, but acknowledge that the manager’s stricter, system-based coaching approach has made it harder for him to break into the lineup. "All of this has affected him. He's frustrated, wanting to prove himself in every training session. He's giving his life," a person close to the player told reporters per ESPN.

As a result, the forward is believed to be growing mentally fatigued by the lack of opportunities, though he remains fully committed to succeeding at Real Madrid in the long term. 

Endrick’s adjustment period under Alonso has reportedly been challenging. The ESPN report states that, unlike former coach Carlo Ancelotti, who nurtured young players with a “fatherly” touch, Alonso’s management is said to follow the “Jose Mourinho school” — focused on tactical rigidity and physical intensity. This has created a competitive environment where established names like Kylian Mbappe dominate the starting spots, leaving little space for young prospects.

Behind the scenes, Mbappe’s unrelenting 'hunger' to play every minute has inadvertently made things more difficult for Endrick. The French star is known to resist rotation, and his presence has reduced opportunities for the teenager to showcase his talent. Those close to Endrick describe the situation as 'psychologically demanding,' though they also acknowledge that patience and perseverance will be crucial in adapting to Real Madrid’s high standards.

In his first full season with the club (2024/25), Endrick logged just 847 minutes across all competitions — the equivalent of fewer than ten full matches. In La Liga, he featured in 22 games but played only 353 minutes, averaging around 16 minutes per appearance. Most of those cameos were late substitute appearances, and he managed only three starts in total.

Real Madrid are expected to receive several offers for Endrick once the transfer window opens, with Marseille in the race for a loan move. The French club believe a temporary spell in Ligue 1 could provide the young striker with the regular minutes he needs to continue his progression. However, Endrick’s representatives are in no rush, preferring to observe how the next few weeks unfold before making a decision.

Still just 19 years old, Endrick is viewed internally as a long-term investment rather than an immediate starter. Madrid’s coaching staff are focused on his gradual integration, balancing his physical development and mental growth. Yet, the slow progression has led to growing speculation about a January 2026 loan move, with Marseille among the frontrunners to offer regular minutes.

For Alonso and Madrid, the coming fixtures may determine the youngster’s immediate future. If he continues to sit out matches, a January loan could benefit all parties — offering Endrick experience abroad while relieving squad congestion in Madrid. For Marseille, meanwhile, landing the Brazilian alongside Greenwood could prove a statement move, adding flair and youthful energy to their attack as they aim to challenge Paris Saint-Germain for the Ligue 1 title.