Friedkin-Mourinho Cold War Could Hand Endrick to Lyon Over Roma

AS Roma and Olympique Lyonnais are battling for Endrick’s loan, but the bad blood between Roma owner Dan Friedkin and José Mourinho could prove decisive against Real Madrid’s wishes.

Barely used during the 2026 World Cup, Endrick failed to convince Real Madrid to give him more playing time. The Spanish club is now studying a new loan to revive the young Brazilian striker’s development, a prospect that has quickly attracted several European suitors.

According to Il Messaggero, Roma have decided to make Endrick their number one target after abandoning the Mason Greenwood pursuit, deemed too expensive. The Italian club intends to outmaneuver Lyon, who had positioned themselves first. But the Giallorossi start with a major handicap: relations between Dan Friedkin and José Mourinho, sacked in January 2024, remain dreadful, and this rift could chill discussions with Madrid.

For Lyon, technical director Matthieu Louis-Jean had already hinted in early June at a possible return of the Brazilian for the 2026-2027 season, though without formally committing. Qualification for the next Ligue des Champions would significantly strengthen Lyon’s position, providing additional financial resources and a strong sporting argument against Real Madrid.

Meanwhile, Lyon are working on other deals deemed more accessible and quicker to wrap up before the transfer window closes, suggesting the club is not betting everything on the Endrick card. The matter remains open, and its outcome will largely depend on Real Madrid’s final decision on the loan terms.