

FolioPitch.com – 14 October 2026 | In a defiant declaration that reverberated across European football, Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has issued a stern warning to AC Milan and any other suitors: if you want to sign Endrick, you must go through him. The Portuguese tactician, never one to shy away from a verbal joust, made it abundantly clear that the young Brazilian forward is not for sale, especially not in the upcoming January transfer window. “Mourinho claims Milan and other interested clubs must fight him to sign Real Madrid forward” is not just a headline; it is a challenge thrown down at the feet of the Rossoneri and their rivals.
Milan’s interest in Endrick is long-standing. The Serie A giants attempted to secure his services during the summer, only to be thwarted by Mourinho’s steadfast refusal to sanction a departure. Despite Endrick’s limited playing time this season, the Rossoneri had hoped that a winter loan move might be more palatable. However, those hopes have been dashed by Mourinho’s latest comments, which leave no room for ambiguity.
Speaking to TNT Sports on the eve of Real Madrid’s Champions League clash with Roma, Mourinho was in typically combative mood. “Whoever wants to sign him in January will have to get past me and fight against me,” he declared. “Endrick isn’t going anywhere; I adore him. He’s incredibly talented and will give us a hand. Loans aren’t needed; Endrick will flourish here in Madrid.”
The statement is classic Mourinho: part motivational tool, part psychological warfare. By publicly backing the 20-year-old, he aims to boost the player’s confidence while simultaneously deterring potential buyers. Yet, the question remains: is this merely performative media antics, or will Mourinho’s word be final? Fabrizio Romano’s recent report suggested that Real Madrid are internally debating whether Endrick’s current situation is conducive to his development. That internal deliberation offers a sliver of hope to Milan, who remain attentive to any shift in stance.
Endrick’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu was met with great fanfare, but his adaptation has been slower than anticipated. With Karim Benzema’s departure and the subsequent attacking reshuffle, opportunities have been scarce. Mourinho’s preference for experienced campaigners has further limited the teenager’s minutes. Nevertheless, the coach insists that Endrick is part of his plans, and that “Mourinho claims Milan and other interested clubs must fight him to sign Real Madrid forward” is a message that should be taken literally.
For Milan, the pursuit of Endrick represents a strategic gamble. The club’s attacking options have been inconsistent, and the addition of a player of Endrick’s potential could provide a significant boost. However, Mourinho’s resistance is a formidable obstacle. The Portuguese has a history of winning such battles, often leveraging the media to assert his authority. Whether Milan can find a way to circumvent this blockade remains to be seen.
The broader implications of this saga extend beyond Milan. Roma, who faced Real Madrid in the Champions League, are also reportedly interested. Mourinho’s comments were made with full knowledge of their presence, adding another layer of intrigue. “Mourinho claims Milan and other interested clubs must fight him to sign Real Madrid forward” serves as a warning to all: the path to Endrick is paved with Mourinho’s defiance.
From a tactical perspective, Mourinho’s stance is understandable. Endrick possesses raw talent that could be harnessed into a potent weapon. His pace, dribbling, and finishing are attributes that any top club covets. Yet, his development requires patience and game time, something that Real Madrid may not be able to offer consistently. This is where Milan’s pitch could resonate: the promise of regular first-team football in a competitive league. But Mourinho’s counter-argument is that Endrick will get his chances in Madrid, and that a loan would only disrupt his integration.
The player’s own desires are also a factor. Endrick has not publicly expressed a wish to leave, and his admiration for Mourinho is well documented. Should he decide to stay and fight for his place, Milan’s task becomes even harder. Conversely, if he grows frustrated with limited minutes, he might push for a move, forcing Mourinho’s hand.
As the January window approaches, the situation will likely intensify. Milan’s sporting director, Geoffrey Moncada, is known for his persistence, and the club has the financial muscle to propose a deal. However, they must contend with Mourinho’s psychological games and Real Madrid’s internal deliberations. The coming weeks will reveal whether “Mourinho claims Milan and other interested clubs must fight him to sign Real Madrid forward” is a bluff or a genuine ultimatum.
In conclusion, Jose Mourinho has once again demonstrated his mastery of the transfer narrative. By publicly challenging Milan and others, he has shifted the pressure onto the suitors, framing any attempt to sign Endrick as a direct confrontation with him. For Milan, the decision is whether to engage in that fight or to look elsewhere. The stakes are high, and the outcome could significantly impact both clubs’ seasons. One thing is certain: Mourinho will not relinquish his prized asset without a battle.
You know that friend who can spend hours debating campus politics, then turn around and dissect the latest smartphone like a tech reviewer? That’s Sheridan Olubayo Sheridan—a former student activist from Surabaya who’s been juggling social media critiques and gadget obsessions since 2009, often in the same breath.
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