Endrick hits out at criticism after going 14 games without scoring for Palmeiras

Endrick Felipe has criticised the media scrutiny placed on him, with the 16-year-old forward claiming he 'didn't ask for this.'

The 16-year-old is among the highest rated young players in the world and will join Real Madrid when he turns 18, but has struggled for form in recent weeks.

Despite going at better than a goal a game for Brazil under-16s, Endrick recently went 14 games without finding the net for Brazilian side Palmeiras.

After breaking the drought in a 2-1 loss to Agua Santa last weekend, the teenager opened up about the criticism he has received.

'It does not bother me to not score goals, because I know that things will improve naturally,' he told Mundo Deportivo.

'I just need to keep my mind strong. The criticism will not diminish and I will have to endure it more and more.'

He went on to question why so much pressure had been placed on him at such a young age, adding: 'Sometimes I wonder: why did so many media put the spotlight on me? I didn't ask for this.

'There are situations that cross the line. 'Ah, he's the new Pele.' Nobody is going to be Pele, he's the king of football.

'There is nothing I can do – I can't ask people not to talk about my life. There will always be people to attack me.'

Real will be hoping Endrick can recover his form before he joins the club in July 2024, as they continue a turbulent season in Spain.

Carlo Ancelotti's side did secure a thumping 4-0 win over Barcelona to reach the Copa del Rey final, but are struggling in the league and sit 12 points adrift of the Catalan Giants in LaLiga.

They will next be in action against Villareal on Saturday before facing Chelsea in the first leg of their Champions League quarter final on Wendesday.