Many questioned whether teenager Endrick could fit in with Real Madrid's main squad or if it would be better to send him out on loan or to the “B” team to gain experience.

Carlo Ancelotti has hailed Real Madrid striker Endrick as a “very special player” after scoring on his Champions League debut. The 16-year-old, an 80th minute substitute, scored Madrid’s third goal in injury time to complete a 3-1 home victory over Stuttgart.

On young teammate Endrick 's goal, Valverde laughed: "If Endrick had not scored that goal, I think I would have grabbed him in the dressing room and spoken to him, but he ended up showing that hunger that he has and that desire to succeed in this club.