Endrick’s rise isn’t about hype. It’s about hunger, humility, and holding on to joy in the moments that matter — even when pressure mounts.
At just 19, the Real Madrid and Brazil forward is already one of the most talked-about names in the game, but his story runs far deeper than goals and glory. From the streets of Brasília to the Bernabéu, Endrick’s path has been defined by resilience and an unshakable sense of self — qualities that will carry him through the noise and into the next phase of a journey that’s only just beginning.
That same spirit fuels Endrick’s role as a founding member of GEN / EA SPORTS — a new platform built to help fans connect more deeply with the athletes they love. He’s a driving force behind the program’s mission to give rising stars a space to share their passions, purpose, and personal journeys. This isn’t traditional marketing; it’s a stage for the future of sport to take the mic and tell their story. That’s why we’re highlighting the human side of a player who once dreamed of nothing but football, but now finds balance through the people (and dogs) that keep him centered.
In this exclusive sit-down with SoccerBible, Endrick opens up about life beyond the game — from planting new roots to finding comfort in gaming and the grounding presence of family. This is Endrick: part wonderkid, part wise soul, and completely unlike anyone else in the game.
It’s rare to see someone so young already married. How has that experience been for you?
Yeah, it’s not something you see often, especially in football. But for me, it was a decision that came from faith, not from pressure. When I met Gabi, I prayed a lot, asking God for direction. As Christians, that’s how we live — we put everything in His hands. I felt that confirmation from Him, and that gave me peace to move forward, to propose, and to start this journey with her.
Marriage has taught me a lot. Even though I was already mature in some ways because I had to grow up early — dealing with fame, responsibility, and expectation — being married has refined that. It’s changed how I see things day to day, how I take care of myself, and how I treat people.
I’ve learned that love isn’t just a feeling, it’s work, commitment, and growth. It’s made me a better man, a better footballer, a better husband. Following God’s plan has been the most important thing for me. My hope is to spend my life with Gabi, to build our family together, and, God willing, one day see a little version of us running around the house.
How has all of this shaped your personality so far?
It’s shaped me completely. My life changed very quickly — my name started being talked about when I was just 14, and suddenly I had to learn how to deal with everything that comes with that. Fame, pressure, expectation… it all arrived before I was even an adult.
I had to mature fast, especially when I started earning money. A lot of young players struggle with that, but I knew I had to handle it with care and discipline. I’ve always been surrounded by good people who tell me the truth — my family, my wife, my close friends — and that helps keep me grounded.
I think growth never stops. Every day I learn something new about myself, about life, about football. I try to listen more, to understand more, and to keep improving. That’s how I want to live — always open to learning, always trying to evolve into a better version of myself.
What do you miss most about Brazil?
Definitely my family. Back home, I spent a lot of time with them — my brother, my parents — and those moments mean everything to me. When you move away, you realise how special that time really was.
I also miss the simplicity of playing football in Brazil — just going outside, grabbing a ball, and playing anywhere. That kind of freedom, that love for the game that lives in the streets, it’s something unique to where I come from.
Those are the two things I miss most: my family, and that pure, joyful version of football that made me fall in love with the game in the first place.
Football isn’t just a passion for you — it feels like part of your family legacy. Why is that so important?
It’s everything. Football has been part of my story since I can remember. It’s not just a game for me — it’s my life, my work, my passion, and my way to give back to my family.
I always say football is both a job and a joy. It’s my job because I treat it seriously — I show up on time, I train hard, I give everything I can for the team. If I don’t do my job well, I could lose it. But it’s also my greatest happiness. I’ve been playing since I was four years old, and that love has only grown stronger.
My grandfather played, my father tried to make it as a player, and I feel like God chose me to carry that dream further. I want my journey to inspire my family — not just now, but for generations to come. I want my kids and grandkids to know that through football, I tried to honour God, honour my country, and honour the name of my family.
In a good way, you’re known for having an old-school approach to football. Why do you think people say that about you?
I think it’s because I try to stay true to who I am. I don’t feel the need to show off or follow trends. My style is simple, classic — I like wearing a nice shirt, trousers, something that makes me feel comfortable and confident.
I don’t wear chains, flashy jewellery, or anything like that. The only thing I allow myself sometimes is a watch, and even that’s because I appreciate the craftsmanship more than the status.
It’s the same in football. I admire players from older generations — the ones who played with heart, with respect for the shirt and the game. That’s the kind of footballer I want to be remembered as: humble, focused, and timeless in my values.
You grew up playing EA SPORTS games. What memories do you have from that time?
So many great memories. When I was younger, my routine was simple — training, going home, playing video games, and sleeping. That was my world. I used to play everything — NBA, UFC, FC — all the EA SPORTS titles.
Those were happy times, and gaming was a way to relax and disconnect from the pressure of football. Even now, I still play. It’s a part of who I am and it reminds me of those moments when football was pure fun. That’s something I try never to lose — the joy of playing.
Do you have a memorable career-mode story from those games?
(Laughs) Too many to count. I remember opening packs and getting some incredible players — one time I pulled Mbappé and couldn’t believe it. It’s funny because even in a game, when something like that happens, it gives you that same adrenaline as real football.
It’s just part of that connection we all have with the sport — whether it’s on a console or on the pitch, you live for those moments that make you jump off your seat.
Do you Play with friends or family?
Mostly with friends. My family doesn’t really play video games, but I love playing online with the guys — Vini, Paquetá, Bruno Guimarães — we have our own group. We play Clubs mode a lot and it’s always full of jokes and laughter.
It’s a great way to disconnect from the intensity of football but still stay connected to it in a fun way. I think that’s what’s beautiful about gaming — it brings people together no matter where they are.
EA SPORTS has a huge global community. How have video games helped you connect with people?
It’s crazy when you think about it. I can be here in Spain and still play with friends in Brazil — it’s like we’re in the same room.
That’s what I love about the EA SPORTS community — it brings people together from all over the world. It helps you keep friendships alive, even when you’re far away.
In a way, it reminds me of football itself: it connects people through joy, competition, and shared passion. I hope that community keeps growing, because it’s something that gives so much happiness to people everywhere.
You’re a founding member of GEN / EA SPORTS — a platform built to showcase next-gen athletes outside the arena. Why is that so important?
I think it’s essential. People see us every week playing football, but that’s just one side of our lives. They don’t always see what we go through off the field — the personal challenges, the discipline, the emotions.
So being part of a program that allows fans to see that human side is important. It reminds people that behind the player, there’s a person — someone who feels, learns, and grows like anyone else.
I think that’s what helps people connect with us more deeply. Football is emotional, and showing who we are outside the game only makes that bond stronger.
Endrick wears the New Balance Tekela v4, which you can pick up at prodirectsport.com/soccer
