Fernando Diniz has high expectations for Endrick, who reported to the Brazilian national team for the first time this week. At the same time, the head coach tempered the expectations surrounding the seventeen-year-old top talent.
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Brazil plays World Cup qualifying matches against Colombia and Argentina. If Endrick gets playing time, he will become the youngest international since 1966. The young forward will play his matches with Palmeiras until the summer and then move to Real Madrid. 'He can become a legend in Brazilian football,' Diniz said at the press conference. 'But time will tell.'
What is certain is that Diniz, who didn't want to reveal whether Endrick will indeed make his debut, holds his pupil in high regard. 'He is here because of his performances and his future. I see tremendous potential, but we don't need to expect everything right away from a seventeen-year-old player.'
Extremely talented generation
Diniz also tried to ease the pressure on the other forwards who need to fill in for the injured Neymar. 'Nobody needs to worry; we have an extremely talented generation. Many players can take on that role, but it's important not to put too much weight on it.'
With Gabriel Jesus, João Pedro, Gabriel Martinelli, Paulinho, Pepê, Raphinha, and Vinícius Júnior, Diniz certainly has plenty of options in attack. Brazil visits Colombia on Thursday and plays Argentina at home on Tuesday.
Updated: 10:58, 16 Nov 2023
