Endrik Refuses to be Compared to Football Legend Pele

Brazilian striker Endrik dismissed comparisons to Pelé and criticized negative stories published about him.

Real Madrid confirmed a deal to sign the 16-year-old from Palmeiras in December, with a move to La Liga due in July 2024, when he turns 18.

Endrik has been out of form since his future move to the Santiago Bernabéu was announced, scoring just one goal in 13 appearances in all competitions, and has struggled with increased media attention for him.

“Sometimes I ask myself: why are there so many stories about me? I didn’t ask for this. There are situations that cross the line,” he told GQ.

“Ah, he’s the new Pele.” Man, no one is going to be Pele, he’s the king of football.

“But I can’t do anything, I can’t ask people not to talk about my life. I have always said that I would like all Brazilians to be able to be by my side, but I understand more and more that this is not possible, there will always be people who will attack me.”

Endrik also criticized the false stories that were published about him, adding: “I used to know what people were saying about me. But no more.

“I like TikTok, but when I see something about me, I quickly leave.

“Recently there was a story that I was in therapy, but this is a lie. The press doesn’t know what’s going on and publishes it. But there’s nothing I can do. If I go out and contradict everything they say, I’ll waste all my time on it.”