Real Madrid did not make any major moves during the winter transfer window-in fact, they made one that they might now be regretting as they watch Endrick thriving in France while the team navigates a crisis.

The Brazilian forward wasn’t going to get enough playing time or minutes in Spain, so he was sent on loan to Olympique Lyonnais, where he hasn’t stopped impressing with his level, leading many to question whether it was a mistake by Real Madrid to let him go.

Endrick has now scored five goals in five games, including a stunning strike that helped Lyon overcome Laval 2-0 and advance to the Coupe de France quarterfinals. After the match, he quickly shut down comparisons to Karim Benzema.

Endrick avoids comparisons

“No, it’s very good for me because (Karim Benzema) is a great player, an incredible player who has been the best in the world. But Karim is light-years ahead of me. He’s a great player. I hope he enjoys it at Al Hilal. I’m very happy to be here, where Karim played. And I hope he can have a great end to his career-or as long as he can keep playing,” he declared.

The Brazilian forward picked up a loose ball near the penalty area after a driving run from midfielder Pavel ulc, effortlessly shrugged off a defender, and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot that buried itself in the top left corner.

At just 19 years old, Endrick is on loan from Real Madrid until the end of the season, after it was determined he needed more competitive continuity ahead of the World Cup later this year. Brazil national team is now coached by Carlo Ancelotti, who was Endrick’s manager during his breakthrough into Madrid’s first team last season.