Former Real Madrid manager backs Endrick to join AS Roma: ‘Can do what Nico Paz did at Como’

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t MARCA ), former Real Madrid manager Fabio Capello has backed Endrick to join AS Roma in January. The former Italy head coach insisted that the youngster could repeat the success that Nico Paz has enjoyed at Como after leaving Los Blancos . Capello’s thoughts on Endrick Endrick finds himself in a difficult situation at Real Madrid once again, with game-time proving hard to come by under Jose Mourinho. The Brazilian forward was close to joining Roma during the summer transfer window, but Mourinho intervened personally to convince him to stay. Struggling for minutes. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) However, since then, the 20-year-old striker has only played 144 minutes across seven matches this term, raising concerns about his continued development. Roma have once again emerged as a suitor for Endrick, and Capello believes that a transfer to the Italian capital club could work wonders for the youngster. “Endrick at Roma can do what Nico Paz did at Como,” he said. “He’s young and comes from Real Madrid; he’s a very talented player. I know Madrid’s youth academy and how they select players…,” explained Capello, before citing Nico Paz as an example. “We’ve already seen how he can make a difference in our league,” he said. Endrick to follow in Nico Paz’s footsteps? Nico Paz left Real Madrid to join Como in the summer of 2024 and has grown into one of most exciting young talents in Europe. Nico Paz has excelled in Italy after leaving Real Madrid. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images) He has become the face of Cesc Fabregas’ side, helping them qualify for the UEFA Champions League, where they have started off well. Real Madrid executed a buyback clause to re-sign the Argentine international last summer, only to sell him back to Como for a higher fee, while retaining a €80 million future repurchase option . Capello is of the opinion that Endrick could have a similar impact if he were to sign for Roma from Real Madrid. The Brazilian international, for his part, is willing to consider a move away, having barely featured this season. Apart from Roma, Portuguese club Sporting CP have also shown interest , and a move there would reunite the player with Paulo Fonseca, under whom he excelled at Lyon last season. So, it will be interesting to see which option Endrick chooses, but as things stand, a January exit, either on loan or a permanent transfer, remain very much likely.