Endrick ready for new roles to help Brazil face Norway

Young Brazilian forward Endrick has declared his readiness to adapt to new roles under coach Carlo Ancelotti as Brazil prepares for their World Cup Round of 16 clash against Norway. The 19-year-old Real Madrid star is seen as the primary replacement for Lucas Paqueta, who suffered a hamstring injury during Brazil's previous win.

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At Lyon, I played as a main striker, on the right wing, and also as a forward. The coach knows my strengths and playing style because we were together at Real Madrid. Here too, they know how I can help the team.

Paqueta's absence is expected to prompt Ancelotti to adjust the midfield setup. Endrick, however, believes his experience playing various positions during his loan spell at Lyon last season has prepared him for any tactical demands. "At Lyon, I played as a main striker, on the right wing, and also as a forward. The coach knows my strengths and playing style because we were together at Real Madrid. Here too, they know how I can help the team," he stated.

Endrick was substituted in for Paqueta in the second half against Japan, a move that saw Brazil adopt a more attacking formation with four forwards and two midfielders. This aggressive approach might be repeated against Norway, led by Erling Haaland, if Ancelotti opts for an early offensive strategy. Endrick described Ancelotti as a decisive coach who trusts his plans, noting, "He is never afraid to make decisions. What he plans usually comes true. We all believe in the coach's plan and will continue to follow all his directions."

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He is never afraid to make decisions. What he plans usually comes true. We all believe in the coach's plan and will continue to follow all his directions.

Brazil must remain cautious, as Norway boasts a strong record against the Selecao, remaining undefeated in four encounters with two wins and two draws, including a 2-1 victory in the 1998 World Cup group stage. Endrick reminded his teammates to maintain composure if faced with difficult situations in the knockout match, emphasizing that there are no second chances. "Even if we fall behind, we must remain calm like we were against Japan. We have to keep fighting until the final whistle because this is a knockout match, and we must ensure victory for Brazil," he added.

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Even if we fall behind, we must remain calm like we were against Japan. We have to keep fighting until the final whistle because this is a knockout match, and we must ensure victory for Brazil.