A wave of memes in Brazil has turned Carlo Ancelotti’s cautious handling of 19-year-old Endrick into a national talking point ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The jokes portray the Brazil coach as almost comically afraid to play the striker, even though Endrick is widely seen as the team’s great young hope.
The uproar began in March, when Endrick came off the bench in a friendly against Croatia. In just 14 minutes he won a penalty and set up Gabriel Martinelli, which pushed him into Ancelotti’s plans for the summer. But after Brazil disappointed in pre-World Cup warmups against Panama, Egypt and Morocco, and fans chanted his name, Endrick was left on the bench for the full 90 minutes in New Jersey. Ancelotti brushed off the issue, saying, “I’m not here to talk about individual players.”
The pressure has only grown in recent weeks as Brazil’s World Cup buildup has intensified, especially after Neymar’s return and injury problems. Endrick did come on against Haiti in a 3-0 win on Friday, but the memes kept coming. Ancelotti said Tuesday that he notices the public demand: “I notice that the fans are pushing hard for Endrick.” Former World Cup winners Tostão and Bebeto have also urged him to pick the teenager, while Zico said, “I don’t see any other player in the squad with his characteristics or personality. He is decisive.”
Supporters point to Endrick’s big moments, including his first international goal against England at Wembley and his decisive showing against Mexico in 2024. Brazil defender Éder Militão said, “Every time he comes on, even if it is for only two or three minutes, he changes the game.” Danilo called him a “rare jewel.” Yet Endrick’s starting record remains thin, with only eight starts at Real Madrid in the 2024/25 season and just 23 minutes per appearance across 37 games, plus weak starts for Brazil against Uruguay at Copa America 2024 and Paraguay in World Cup qualifying. Endrick insists there is no tension with Ancelotti, saying, “I’m happy he is in my life.” Ancelotti says the teenager must be used “at the right moment,” adding, “There is no need to rush.”
