Carlo Ancelotti insists he has not instructed Endrick to leave Real Madrid in a bid to secure a World Cup spot with Brazil.

Endrick has managed just 12 minutes of LaLiga action this season for Xabi Alonso's side, having seen a hamstring injury derail his pre-season preparations and Club World Cup campaign beforehand.

Much had been expected from the 19-year-old, who joined Madrid from Palmeiras in 2022, but he finds himself on the periphery of Alonso's title-chasing squad.

The Brazilian is reportedly set to join Lyon on loan in the January transfer window, though Ancelotti denies any suggestions that Endrick has been told to leave the Spanish capital to revive his international hopes.

"He's a very important player because he's one of the talents to have come out of Brazilian football," Ancelotti told Spanish media outlet AS.

"We're evaluating him. But it's not true that I said Endrick should leave Real Madrid to go to the World Cup.

"That's a matter between Real Madrid and the player. He needs to talk to the club and make the best decision for himself and for Real Madrid."

Endrick appeared in 22 LaLiga matches in his debut season, but it remains to be seen where his future lies amid growing talk of a Lyon loan, and previous interest from Manchester United.

Ancelotti's main focus remains on Endrick getting regular football, wherever that opportunity comes from.

"It’s important for Endrick to start playing again," said the Italian coach.

"I spoke with him at the start of the season. He was injured, but now he’s fine. He needs to think with his team about what’s best, talk with the club, and decide what suits him."

Ancelotti's Brazil face Senegal in a friendly at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday before a fixture with Tunisia three days later.