(Reuters) – Brazil’s teenage prodigy Endrick will be hoping to make his first appearance for the national team at a major tournament when his country take on Costa Rica in their Copa America opener on Monday.
The 17-year-old striker, who joined Real Madrid from Palmeiras, knows he has a long way to go to break into the Brazilian starting line-up in a squad that includes Raphinha, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo in attack.
“Only God knows (when I will start). I am very grateful to have Abel (Ferreira) as a coach, he knew when to play me. Everything is up to God and Professor Dorival Jr. He is a spectacular coach. He is doing what is best for the Brazilian team,” Endrick told a press conference on Friday.
Endrick, who in March became the youngest player to score in an international match at Wembley when he gave Brazil a 1-0 win over England, made his mark in the other warm-up fixtures ahead of Copa America with a goal in a 3-2 victory over Mexico, having also scored against Spain.
The ruthless competitor added that, despite his youth, there was no pressure on him on the pitch because of his confidence against the opponents.
“I have always been very precocious in my life and since I became a professional I have played against opponents who have always teased me, insulted me, talked about my family, my girlfriend,” he said.
“But I got used to it quickly because I was 16. I’m calm and I hope I can help, I think it’s right, in football you have to destabilise the other player. It’s been like that since I arrived, so I’ve adapted and I’m very confident that I can help the team.”
Brazil will also face Paraguay and Colombia in Group D.
