Real Madrid’s new signing, 18-year-old Endrick, promised to be ready and excited by the great challenge of playing with one of the world’s most legendary football teams. More than 40,000 fans turned out at the Santiago Bernabéu Saturday to greet the young striker, who was handed jersey No. 16.
He said in his first official comments since the unveiling, “I am very happy, as I already spoke on the pitch. Being in this city, in this team. I thank God very much. The responsibility is great,” expressing elation and emotional attachment to the club.
He reflected on his journey, saying that his closeness to Real Madrid was due to his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, who, in the past, used to be his idol. “Playing for Madrid is impressive for me. I hope that together we can make a great story,” he added.
Endrick took a little time to thank his family, whom he claimed were instrumental to his success. “I am happy and grateful to see my family happy. They are the keys to my life,” he expressed, being emotional, apparently.
Not deterred by the much-expected pressure, Endrick said, “If God has given me that responsibility, it is because He knows I can be here.” He reiterated his desire to have a long-lasting effect at the Gema Culers and retire at the club: “When the negotiations started, I just wanted to go to Madrid.”
In this age of perhaps unrelenting pessimism, the signing of Endrick to Real Madrid has done something that for many seemed impossible—coming with optimism and a heart-felt commitment to achieving great things with the Spanish giants.
