Brazil manager Diniz says “I have to lower expectations” of Endrick

The Brazil manager tried to calm the water ahead of Brazil’s first game as many people are eager to see Endrick on the pitch.

A huge number of journalists close to the Brazilian national team have asked Fernando Diniz, the manager of the side, to play Endrick from the start against Colombia (November 16 at 7:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT.).

Given the absence of various big names in the squad and the long drought the side have suffered when it comes to finding the net, the manager’s bravery to put the 17-year-old into the lineup has been questioned, with Diniz even being forced to ask for calm during the pre-game press conference.

Diniz, of course, was questioned multiple times about Endrick before heading to Barranquilla but the Flamengo coach, who just won the Copa Libertadores, remained cautious in his evaluations on how best to use the Palmeiras forward: “he’s a very special player”, said Diniz, “what he does at just 17-years-old already opens the door for him to a brilliant future and a great trajectory.

However, I have to lower expectations of him. I don’t want him to feel pressured. The best thing we can do is protect him so he doesn’t feel overwhelmed. We have to alleviate the weight on him and emotionally strengthen him to go up against the challenges that await him during his career”, said the coach.

Throughout 2023, Endrick has been a media sensation but he has also suffered the pressure that comes with several periods of a goal scoring drought, but despite his age he has shown huge mental strength that has allowed him to recover his form and reach a sensational vein of form that has led him to Brazil’s senior team for the first time.

The coach, who replaced Tite after the Qatar World Cup, also assessed the Colombian