Real Madrid defender Eder Militão has been ruled out for the remainder of the season following a severe knee injury sustained during a La Liga match against Osasuna on November 9, 2024.
The Brazilian center-back, who had only returned to action in March after recovering from a previous ACL tear in his left knee, suffered another anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, this time in his right knee. The injury occurred during Real Madrid's commanding 4-0 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, where Vinicius Junior notably scored a hat-trick.
Militão was visibly distressed as he was carried off the field on a stretcher in the 30th minute of the game. Subsequent medical examinations confirmed the complete tear of his right ACL, along with damage to the meniscus, necessitating surgery in the coming days.
This marks the second consecutive season that Militão will miss significant playing time due to an ACL injury, having previously torn his left ACL in August 2023.
The 26-year-old defender's absence is a massive blow to Real Madrid, as he plays a crucial role in anchoring the team's defense alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Despite his injury woes, Militão has been instrumental in helping Madrid secure two European Cups and three La Liga titles. Coach Carlo Ancelotti responded to the situation by debuting youth player Raúl Asencio as Militão's replacement.
In addition to Militão, Real Madrid's injury list includes other key players such as Dani Carvajal, Thibaut Courtois, David Alaba, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, further compounding the club's defensive crisis. The team hopes for Militão's recovery in time for the new FIFA Club World Cup, which begins in mid-June 2025, although his return will depend on the progress of his rehabilitation.
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