Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazário has thrown his support behind teenage sensation Endrick, insisting the youngster is fully prepared for the FIFA World Cup despite remaining on the bench during the Selecao’s opening match against Morocco.
The 19-year-old forward was an unused substitute as Brazil were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by Morocco, a result that immediately sparked criticism from supporters who believed the Real Madrid starlet could have provided the spark needed to break down the African side’s defence.
Many fans questioned coach Carlo Ancelotti after Endrick’s recent form, including a winning goal against Egypt in a pre-tournament friendly, appeared to strengthen his case for more minutes.
However, Ronaldo has urged patience, defending both the player and the manager’s decision-making.
Speaking on Resenha da Copa, the two-time World Cup winner said Endrick remains an important part of Brazil’s plans but currently sits behind other attacking options in the squad hierarchy. “I am sure he will get his opportunity. “He will come on at some point, but right now he is the third option in attack. “There is Igor Thiago, there is Matheus Cunha, and then it’s him.”
Ronaldo also revealed that a late injury concern involving midfielder Bruno Guimarães disrupted Brazil’s intended substitutions against Morocco.
“I think he would have come on in the game [against Morocco] if it weren’t for the substitution where I think Bruno Guimaraes asked to come off… That’s an important detail. Because Ancelotti was definitely going for the win. But listen, he is ready, forget it, he’s ready.”
The Brazilian icon stressed that Endrick’s lack of playing time should not be interpreted as a lack of trust from the coaching staff.
Instead, he pointed to the quality of competition within Brazil’s attack and argued that the teenager is competing with established forwards currently performing at a high level.
“He is competing out there with other great players. “He’s on par with Matheus Cunha from Manchester United, and Igor Thiago was a top scorer in England, so we are well-served right now.”
Following the draw against Morocco, attention has quickly shifted to Brazil’s next Group C fixture against Haiti, a match many believe is crucial to the team’s hopes of finishing top of the group.
Ronaldo believes the encounter offers an opportunity not only to secure three points but also to build confidence and improve Brazil’s goal difference. “I think this next game will be important for everyone to gain confidence.
“Obviously, the victory is very important, but goal difference will be crucial in this match for first place – that will decide the top spot in the group. So we have to make the most of every single chance so we don’t end up struggling.”
Brazil entered the tournament among the favourites but now face increased pressure to deliver a convincing response after dropping points in their opening match.
