In a candid and emotional interview with The Guardian, Brazilian phenom Endrick has sparked a global conversation about the mental toll of professional sports. Despite his meteoric rise, the young star admitted that he hopes his future children choose a different path, stating, “Football is not a nice place. I hope my son becomes a doctor, a lawyer, or anything else.”
The Hidden Toll of the “Beautiful Game”
While fans see the glory of the Champions League and the bright lights of the Bernabéu, Endrick’s comments pull back the curtain on a “very tough environment.” Now playing for Lyon after his high-profile stint at Real Madrid, the 19-year-old opened up about:
• Mental Health Struggles: Endrick confessed to handling social media criticism poorly in his early teens, often checking Twitter (X) immediately after games to “inflate his ego,” only to be crushed by negativity.
• A “Peaceful Life“: With his wife, Gabriely, expecting their first child later this year, Endrick expressed a desire for his child to live in a “normal world” away from the scrutiny of the press and the pressure of being “Endrick the footballer.”
From Real Madrid to Lyon: A New Chapter
The interview comes at a pivotal moment in Endrick’s career. Currently finding his rhythm in Ligue 1, he has been instrumental for Lyon, scoring crucial goals against PSG and maintaining a high performance level as he eyes a spot in Brazil’s upcoming World Cup squad.
Despite the “ice in his veins” reputation on the pitch, this latest revelation shows a deeply protective and mature side to one of football’s biggest talents. By prioritizing his family’s peace over a sporting dynasty, Endrick is redefining what success looks like for the next generation of athletes.