Ronaldo or Messi? Prodigy Endrick picks the superior player

Young talent Endrick has made his choice between two legends, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have long been regarded as defining figures for the next generation of football, often considered two of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Their influence is so significant that even in Brazil, a country rich with legends like Neymar, Pele, Ronaldinho, and Ronaldo Nazario, young players continue to look up to this legendary duo as their main source of inspiration.

In this case, the young striker Endrick clearly showed his preference. In an interview with L’Equipe, the Brazilian talent openly expressed his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo when discussing his role model. “Cristiano Ronaldo is my number one idol. What I admire most is that at 40 years old, he is still the hardest worker compared to everyone else”, Endrick shared.

In an era dominated by Messi and Ronaldo, it is the Portuguese superstar who has made the strongest impression on Endrick. The striker also emphasized that he is a classic number 9 center forward, amid ongoing debates about his playing position. “He was very close to retirement, but he can still play for many more years. I hope he continues to do so”, the Brazilian player added.

Coming from Palmeiras’ academy, Endrick was signed by Real Madrid for a fee of 60 million Euros at just 17 years old and is considered one of the brightest talents of his generation. With a contract lasting until June 2030, the striker is currently gaining experience in Europe while playing for Olympique Lyon.

Although he has not been called up in recent Brazil national team selections by coach Carlo Ancelotti, Endrick still hopes to one day share the World Cup stage with his idol. “Facing Cristiano Ronaldo at the World Cup? Oh, that would be amazing. I hope it happens and that we win”, he said.

For that scenario to become reality, Endrick first needs to secure a spot on the Brazil national team. His loan move to Lyon is seen as an important step in this process, as the young striker begins to get consistent playing time and show good form in France.

Endrick has appeared in 4 matches for Lyon, scoring 4 goals and providing 1 assist, while also earning 2 Man of the Match awards in victories. This performance has given him a significant boost after a slow start to the season with limited playtime.

The 2025/26 season marks the second year of Endrick’s contract with Real Madrid, but only 3 appearances in the first half of the season have left him on the sidelines of Brazil’s plans as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Therefore, he decided to move to Lyon on a 6-month loan after the French club paid Real Madrid 1.17 million USD, a decision Endrick believes will help him maintain his dream of playing internationally.