Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to leave Endrick out of Brazil’s starting line-up has sparked widespread debate among fans and pundits alike.

Brazil’s latest World Cup journey was always expected to come with its share of drama and controversy.

While Neymar has finally returned to the national squad after a three-year gap, the biggest talking point has been another omission — that of Endrick.

The young forward was included in Brazil’s World Cup squad after an impressive half-season loan spell with Lyon, following a challenging start at Real Madrid.

His resurgence in France came after a difficult six months at the Santiago Bernabéu, during which new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso struggled to find his footing.

During that turbulent period, Endrick’s opportunities with Real Madrid were severely limited, with the World Cup-winning coach restricting him to just four appearances across all competitions.

His temporary switch to Ligue 1 proved to be a turning point, as he recorded eight goals and eight assists in 21 matches for Lyon, helping the French club secure a return to the UEFA Champions League.

This impressive run earned Endrick a call-up to Brazil’s squad for the March international friendlies, where he quickly justified Carlo Ancelotti’s faith in him.

Just 14 minutes after coming off the bench against Croatia, the 19-year-old made an immediate impact — winning a penalty for Igor Thiago and setting up Gabriel Martinelli for a goal.

However, under the same manager who oversaw his early days in Madrid, Endrick’s role with the Selecao has become increasingly confusing.

He was left out of the pre-World Cup friendlies against Panama and Egypt, and was also absent from Brazil’s tournament opener against Morocco.

Each time, fans called for his inclusion, and they were proven right when his second-half appearance turned the tide against Egypt’s Pharaohs, as the young striker netted a crucial goal.

Another substitute cameo in Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti only intensified calls for him to start, placing Ancelotti under growing scrutiny.

The Italian tactician has offered faint praise, labelling Endrick an “extraordinary talent” but firmly dismissing discussions about giving him a starting role.

Ancelotti’s cautious approach has become a running joke among Brazilian fans online, with memes portraying the two as complete opposites in humorous scenarios.

Known for adapting his tactics to fit his players’ strengths, Ancelotti appears convinced that Endrick is most effective when introduced as an impact substitute.

It’s a reasonable strategy, but unless the teenage star proves otherwise from the starting eleven, the debate — and the memes — are unlikely to fade anytime soon.