Ronaldo Backs Endrick for 2026 World Cup Breakthrough Despite Brazil Bench Role Against Morocco

Brazil great Ronaldo has come out in defence of coach Carlo Ancelotti after the Italian tactician drew criticism for failing to introduce teenage striker Endrick during the Seleção’s 1-1 opening draw with Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking on the “Resenha da Copa” programme on 16 June 2026, the two-time World Cup winner pointed to a specific in-game development that he believes altered Ancelotti’s attacking intentions. “I think he would have come on in the game if it weren’t for the substitution where Bruno Guimaraes asked to come off. That’s an important detail because Ancelotti was definitely going for the win,” Ronaldo explained.

The injury-enforced departure of midfielder Bruno Guimarães in the closing stages forced the coaching staff to adjust their plans, according to Ronaldo, effectively removing what would have been an opportunity for the teenager to make his World Cup debut.

Despite the context, Ronaldo left no room for doubt regarding his assessment of the Real Madrid forward’s readiness for the tournament’s highest stage. “He’s ready, forget it, he’s ready,” he stated plainly.

However, Ronaldo was equally candid about the competitive landscape Endrick faces within a well-stocked Brazil attack. “He is competing with other great players. He’s on par with Matheus Cunha, and Igor Thiago was a top scorer in England, so we are well-served right now,” he said, adding that the 18-year-old currently sits as the third attacking option behind Igor Thiago and Matheus Cunha. “He will come on at some point, but right now he is the third option in attack. There is Igor Thiago, there is Matheus Cunha, and then it’s him.”

Nonetheless, Ronaldo maintained an optimistic outlook for the youngster’s involvement as the tournament progresses. “I am sure he will get his opportunity,” he said.

Endrick joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2024 following a highly anticipated transfer from Palmeiras, and has drawn considerable attention as one of the brightest young forwards in world football. His inclusion in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad underscored the faith the coaching staff have in his potential, even if his path to consistent minutes remains complicated by the depth of talent ahead of him.

Brazil’s draw with Morocco means Ancelotti’s side will be eager to secure their first three points of the tournament in their next group stage fixture, with the outcome likely to shape how aggressively the coach turns to his bench options — potentially handing Endrick his long-awaited World Cup moment.