While much of the recent focus has been on new arrivals Alvaro Carreras and Dean Huijsen, Real Madrid have quietly welcomed back a crucial figure, Eder Militao.
The Brazilian defender has made a smooth return to the starting XI under Xabi Alonso, and his performances suggest he is ready to reclaim his role as the leader of the defence.
For Alonso, Militao’s return feels almost like a new signing, as after two serious ACL injuries in consecutive seasons, the defender’s comeback has been one of the best pieces of news for Madrid.
This was confirmed against Mallorca, where he reminded fans of his quality with one of the most assured defensive displays of the match.
Numbers to prove his importance
Militao was among the standout performers on the pitch. He won six out of nine duels, the joint-highest alongside Mallorca’s Martin Valjent.
He also ranked third in tackles (two) and third in aerial duels won (two), behind Huijsen and Valjent.
Perhaps most impressively, he led both teams in passing accuracy, completing 44 of his 47 passes with a 94% success rate.
Before his injuries, Militao formed a rock-solid partnership with Antonio Rudiger at the heart of Carlo Ancelotti’s defence.
In his absence, the German assumed the leadership role, but now, with both available, Alonso has a formidable defensive pairing once again.
Hard work behind the recovery
Militao’s return is the product of months of relentless effort. Alongside his work at Valdebebas, he leaned on the expertise of Jaime Salom, Madrid’s trusted physiotherapist, while also completing extra sessions with his personal trainer, Romario Queiroz.
His dedication was evident during the Club World Cup, where he pushed hard to be available, even if his minutes were limited.
Now fully back under Alonso’s guidance, Militao looks ready to re-establish himself as one of the best defenders in Europe.
His professionalism has paid off, and with La Liga underway, Real Madrid once again have their defensive leader.