Vinicius Jr. calms Endrick ahead of Brazil’s World Cup squad announcement.
The story underscores the pressure surrounding a coveted national call-up. Although Endrick has emerged as one of football’s prominent young attackers, the wait for Brazil’s final squad decision left him understandably anxious.
For Vinicius, this moment served as an opportunity to step up as the senior teammate that Brazil requires him to be.
Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images
Vinicius Jr. calmed Endrick before Brazil’s 2026 FIFA World Cup call-up
In a recent Fabrizio Romano post, Vinicius revealed how anxious Endrick was prior to Brazil’s squad announcement.
“Endrick was nervous for the World Cup call… I told him, ‘Relax, boy! You will be with us,’” Vini Jr. stated.
This brief message highlights the bond between the two. Vinicius understands the pressure well, having navigated it himself while at Madrid and as one of Brazil’s key players.
Endrick’s nerves were justified. A call-up for the World Cup is never automatic, especially for a teenager aiming to enter a forward line brimming with elite talent.
Vinicius didn’t need a lengthy speech; he instilled confidence in Endrick, making him feel like he belonged and easing the tension surrounding the moment.
Endrick gives Brazil a 2026 FIFA World Cup bet on fearless youth
Endrick’s inclusion is significant as he is not merely another young player added for experience. At 19, he brings Brazil a dynamic, explosive forward capable of altering a match from the bench or contending for a larger role.
His journey has been challenging. He transitioned from Palmeiras to Madrid amid soaring expectations, then had to battle for playing time in one of Europe’s most competitive attacking units.
Securing a spot on the Brazil squad marks a pivotal milestone, demonstrating that Carlo Ancelotti trusts Endrick’s talent enough to involve him in football’s grandest tournament.
The relationship with Vinicius also plays a role. Brazil requires star power, but equally important are younger players who feel integrated within the squad before the pressures increase.
Endrick still must earn his playing time, as Neymar, Raphinha, and other forwards present no easy path to a starting role. Nonetheless, Vinicius’ words reflect a broader sentiment: Brazil views Endrick as part of the present, not just the future.