Eder Militao of Real Madrid
Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images
Real Madrid defensive ace Eder Militao appears to have put his injury nightmare behind him.
The Brazilian centre-back has recovered from the torn left hamstring he suffered from last season and has now spent almost a week training normally alongside his teammates during the ongoing international break.
The signs so far are positive, but the club are fully aware of the priority at this stage: not making the mistake of rushing him back and risking a relapse.
As such, according to a report from Bernabeu Digital, doubts remain over whether Militao will be ready in time for Real Madrid’s La Liga clash against FC Barcelona later this month.
A cautious return
Injuries have become a recurring problem for Militao over the past three years, and the aim is to prevent that cycle from continuing.
Eder Militao, Real Madrid player.
Eder Militao has resumed training. (Picture credit: Real Madrid official website)
After all, he has spent more than 700 days out of action for the Spanish capital club in the past three seasons, giving raise to concerns over his physical condition.
Jose Mourinho has been particularly cautious with players returning from injury, and the Brazilian’s situation requires even greater care for these reasons.
Everyone at the club is encouraging him to take his time, meaning his return to competitive football will have to wait.
Militao has identified the Clasico as one of his main targets. His return to full training represents an important step, but there is still work to do before he can consider making his competitive comeback.
Defensive problems against Villarreal
However, Militao’s absence is not the only issue affecting the Real Madrid defence, as the team will return from the international break with serious problems.
Jose Mourinho, Manager of Real Madrid
Issues in defence for Mourinho. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Alongside the Brazilian, Los Blancos will be without Raul Asencio, who has undergone surgery and will not return until 2027.
Meanwhile, Ibrahima Konate is still recovering from the sprain he sustained while away with the France national team, while Dean Huijsen must serve a one-match suspension following his red card in the derby.
As such, for Real Madrid’s first match after the international window, the only fully available centre-back is Antonio Rudiger.
Franco Mastantuono of ACF Fiorentina
Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images
Franco Mastantuono of Argentina
Mastantuono impressed for Argentina against Bolivia. (Photo by Luciano Bisbal/Getty Images)
Franco Mastantuono of ACF Fiorentina
Mastantuono is doing well at Fiorentina. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)