November 24 – Real Madrid-bound Brazilian starlet Endrick is set to sign a long-term boot deal with New Balance after becoming the third-youngest player to feature for Brazil earlier this week.
Reports suggest that 17-year-old Endrick is set to launch his own brand akin to Michael Jordan’s deal with Nike in 1984, with New Balance to provide him with personalised signature boots from his own line.
Real Madrid signed the winger, who currently plays for Brazilian side Palmeiras, for £51 million in December but he will join them in the summer of 2024. The 14-time Champions League winners could use Endrick’s talent immediately though, following a serious injury to star winger Vinicius Junior sustained during the international break.
Endrick made his senior debut for Brazil against Colombia in a 2-1 loss last week and made a 20-minute cameo against World Cup Champions Argentina, where his side lost 1-0 in a game marred by violence.
Whilst Endrick will be wearing the most premium boots on offer, an integral aspect of this deal revolves around a secondary line that’s more accessible and affordable to a wider audience, aiming to cater to individuals across diverse economic backgrounds.
Endrick’s family reportedly holds a strong belief that his boots should be within reach for everyone, regardless of their financial capacity.
In addition to product offerings, the agreement entails community engagement initiatives for the 17-year-old. This involves visiting various communities, refurbishing football courts, and supporting sports-related projects, highlighting a commitment beyond just the commercial aspect.
While major players in the football boot industry, including Nike, Puma, and Adidas, might have extended offers, it’s suggested that Endrick is poised to become the face of New Balance as opposed to just another player at Nike or Adidas.
Notably, New Balance, headquartered in Boston, also sponsors several England players including Raheem Sterling, Harvey Elliott, and Bukayo Saka, amongst other worldwide talent such as Sadio Mane.
Endrick wore New Balance’s Tekela v4 boots in a striking golden hue for the World Cup qualifiers just played.
Endrick is set to return to Palmeiras as his side pushes for the league title. At present, the team are top of the table, just one point ahead of Botafogo who have sacrificed a healthy lead after collecting just three points from the last five games. With four games left to play, it’s still all to play for with just three points separating first and fifth.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1714199820labto1714199820ofdlr1714199820owedi1714199820sni@g1714199820niwe.1714199820yrrah1714199820