'I started learning about Bobby Charlton’s history. I like learning about the history of the players that I don’t know very well' Real Madrid youngster Endrick explains his fascination with the Manchester United legend

“A guy who is an idol here is also Bobby Charlton,” a 17-year-old Endrick told reporters after he scored his first-ever international goal for Brazil.

It came against England at Wembley Stadium just over two years ago, with the youngster’s rebound shot the only thing separating the two sides on the night.

“Playing in the stadium Bobby played, scoring on the day Ronaldo debuted – these are very important memories for me,” he added after the game.

Endrick explains his love for Sir Bobby Charlton

It caught onlookers by surprise, given the United great made his last player appearance over 30 years before the Brazilian was born, on the other side of the world.

His comment spoke to the global notoriety of a figure like Charlton, but also to Endrick’s hunger to learn about the game he’s trying to carve his own name into.

“I’m a big fan of EA Sports FC and play a lot of Ultimate Team, where the most desired players are the Icons,” Endrick tells FourFourTwo now. “Besides Bobby Charlton, I also like playing with Ruud Gullit.

“I started learning about Charlton’s history because he was a striker, but also played as a midfielder and defended very well too.”

It was that video game that prompted the young Brazilian to begin researching Charlton, who sadly passed away in 2023.

“I like learning about the history of the players that I get but I don’t know very well,” he continued, “so I researched him and saw he played for Manchester United, won the European Cup and was loved by the local fans.

“I liked his story and used him a lot in the game because he has an amazing shot. Unfortunately, I never had the chance to meet him, but I’ve seen clips of him on TikTok.”

It’s a likeable trait that a youngster like Endrick is so intrigued by figures from years gone by, albeit taking a modern route into his historical research.

When the youngster first arrived at Real Madrid in 2024, before heading on loan to Lyon midway through this season, he was given the nickname ‘Bobby’ by Antonio Rudiger, Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham.

“I always take it as a joke and like the nickname,” Endrick said. “It shows how good the atmosphere is at Real Madrid.

“But when it’s time to work seriously, they call me by my name and we focus on doing our best.

“Here at Lyon, the nickname hasn’t caught on – they just call me Endrick.”