Credits: IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

Eder Militao Injury Update: How Long Will Real Madrid Be Without Their Star Defender?

Credits: IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

Real Madrid have been dealt another defensive blow as Eder Militao has picked up an adductor injury while on international duty with Brazil. The centre-back signalled discomfort during the second half of a friendly against Tunisia. He pulled up as he attempted to control a pass near the halfway line.

Brazil’s medical staff responded immediately. He was later replaced by Fabricio Bruno. Real Madrid recently released a statement. The issue affects Militao’s right adductor and further assessment was scheduled to gauge the severity. The club did not specify his recovery timeline in the statement.

🚨 Real Madrid tests confirm Éder Militão has been diagnosed with an injury in the major adductor of his right leg. pic.twitter.com/VvvdUdLmSI
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 19, 2025

However multiple reports indicate a likely two-week absence. This timeline would place him out of action for several upcoming fixtures for Madrid. This includes league matches against Elche, Girona and Athletic Club, and a Champions League meeting with Olympiacos.

The setback also halts the momentum Militao had built after returning from consecutive ACL injuries. Those kept him sidelined for most of the previous two seasons. Militao’s injury history has already shaped Real Madrid’s long-term planning. He has missed substantial periods previously.

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They had been due to ligament damage in both knees. Both the club and country were positive when he returned to the field earlier this season. Carlo Ancelotti, now guiding Brazil, reinstated him as a starter after he regained full fitness. But the latest muscular problem now shows the injury issues that’s been haunting him in recent years.

Alonso’s Defensive Options Tested Again With Eder Militao Injured

For Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, it could have hardly come at a worse time. Dean Huijsen had already withdrawn from the Spain squad because of a groin issue. Meanwhile, injuries to Antonio Rudiger, Dani Carvajal, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Franco Mastantuono have left the squad thin across the back line.

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Huijsen is believed to be fit enough to feature soon. Even so, the uncertainty surrounding multiple players forces Alonso into delicate squad-management decisions. In the event Militao is unavailable longer than expected, Madrid may need to rely on Raul Asencio or the recently returned David Alaba.

Asencio was heavily used under Ancelotti during a previous injury crisis. However, he has had limited minutes this season. Whereas, Alaba has endured his own extended spells on the sidelines in the last two seasons. Several senior players face uncertain roles. Now Los Blancos are expected to explore additions to stabilise the backline moving forward.

brazil

Eder Militao

Real Madrid

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.