The new Pelé is on the horizon: Endrick Felipe
The new Pelé has been eagerly anticipated by Brazilians ever since the soccer superstar retired from the field, and Endrick could fulfill that dream.
When you talk about Brazil, you’re talking about soccer, and Pelé is the most iconic figure in this sport in the South American country.
But today, a new figure has emerged, considered the New Pelé of Brazilian soccer. His name is Endrick Felipe Moreira de Sousa, recently signed by Real Madrid, and he’s only 17 years old.
The title of the new Pelé has been given to several Brazilian figures over time, such as Robinho and Neymar.
The new Pelé, Endrick Felipe, is just a 17-year-old kid who rose to fame after making his professional debut last year in a Brazilian league match against Curitiba.
His father became a sensation on social media after shedding tears of emotion while recording his son’s entrance onto the field. Before that, Endrick scored 165 goals in 169 matches played in the youth divisions of his São Paulo club.
Endrick Felipe is dubbed the new Pelé because of his physical and technical abilities, as well as a photograph that went viral.
In the International Tournament of Montaigu (France) last year, Endrick was carried on shoulders after winning the U-17 final against Argentina.
The photograph of the new Pelé went viral as many compared it to an iconic picture of O Rei Pelé in Mexico ’70.
His stats were impressive: 5 goals in four matches (4-0 against Mexico, 2-2 with the Netherlands, 3-0 against England, plus the 2-1 victory in the final against Argentina), earning him the top scorer and best player awards.
The new Pelé, Endrick Felipe
The new Pelé, Endrick Felipe, hails from Taguatinga and has shared his thoughts on being compared to Edson Arantes do Nascimento.
“Nobody should feel sorry for me or pat me on the head. Sometimes I wonder, why did so many media outlets focus on me? I didn’t ask for this. There are situations that cross the line. ‘Oh, he’s the new Pelé.’ Nobody will be Pelé; he’s the King of Soccer. But now there’s nothing to be done; I can’t ask people not to talk about my life. There will always be people to attack me.”
After participating in seven matches and scoring three goals in Palmeiras‘ campaign as champions of the Brasileirao in 2022, several European teams took notice of him, including Barcelona, PSG, and Chelsea.
However, it was Real Madrid that secured his signing for 2024 – when he turns 18 – for a substantial sum.
Although official numbers were not disclosed, Spanish media reported an initial fee of 35 million euros, with an additional 25 million euros in bonuses and performance-related incentives, potentially totaling 60 million euros.
“Palmeiras, Real Madrid, and the representatives of the forward Endrick reached an agreement for the player’s transfer to the Spanish club in July 2024, when he turns 18. The terms and values of the operation are confidential. Until then, Endrick will continue his development at S.E. Palmeiras. The player will travel to Madrid in the coming days to visit our club’s facilities,” stated the Madrid institution. Meanwhile, Palmeiras president Leila Pereira described Endrick’s sale as “the biggest deal in the history of Brazilian soccer.”
Once the agreement was sealed, Endrick didn’t hide his joy.
“I thank Palmeiras, the champions of America and the world and, forever, the club of my heart, for providing me with everything I needed to become what I am today, helping me achieve my dreams, and respecting my wishes and those of my family.
Until I join Real Madrid, I will continue to dedicate myself as I always have to offer even more to Palmeiras on the field: more goals, more victories, more titles, and even more joy for our fans,” he said.
The talented left-footer was called up by the Brazilian national team to participate in the U-20 World Cup in Argentina this year, but Palmeiras rejected the call-up and prevented him from representing the Verdeamarelha.
In the current edition of the Libertadores, Endrick made his debut in the 2-1 victory against Cerro Porteño, and later he played minutes in the 4-2 win against Barcelona of Ecuador (both in the group stage.
