Neymar named the Brazilian youngster that he's backing to become a superstar.
Real Madrid struck a deal to sign Endrick from Palmeiras in a transfer worth £51.6 million. The 17-year-old sensation has made a name for himself in Brazil with his goal-scoring exploits.
The budding forward then transferred his club form into the international arena as he was the youngest Brazil player in 67 years when he played for the national team for the first time.
And he became just the second player in Brazil’s history after Pele to score in consecutive appearances before turning 18, bagging against England and Spain.
But Neymar believes another Brazilian ace could surpass Endrick.
The Al Hilal superstar, formerly of Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, opted for Estevao Willian when he was asked to name the Brazilian that he’s tipping for superstardom.
Asked which talent of this new generation in Brazil excites him the most, he replied:
“I think Estevao of Palmeiras is big talent that is surging in Brazilian football. I think he will be a genius.”
Estevao, also 17, will join Chelsea next summer after agreeing a deal to sign the winger from Palmeiras for an initial £28 million.
The 32-year-old isn’t the only Brazilian singing the youngster’s praises as ex-Middlesbrough midfielder and World Cup winner Branco believes Estevao is the greatest player he’s seen born in Brazil since Neymar.
“It’s been a long time since we’ve had these kids there and Brazil has a spectacular generation,” he said.
“Brazil for 2026 will arrive very strong, they’ll arrive with strength, speed and quality.
“Estevao, for me, with all due respect to the others, this is something serious, something that I’ve never said and I’m going to say – since Neymar, he is the greatest player I’ve seen born in Brazil.”
“This is my opinion, you’ve seen him close, you know. This is Brazil, they’re all spectacular but this boy, his ceiling is a bit higher.”
