Real Madrid will soon be able to count on one of its defensive pillars. Éder Militao, after long months of absence, will return to the group for the round of 16 of the World Cup against Juventus.
A symbolic step for the Brazilian, which comes out of a second ordeal on the knee, and excellent news for Xabi Alonso, in search of defensive certainties in a competition where the slightest false step is eliminatory. Victim of a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee on November 9, Militão had to undergo a new surgical intervention, coupled with a rigorous rehabilitation phase.
But faithful to his character, the defender approached this test with an exemplary determination. The medical staff, Xabi Alonso and the player agreed that, if the conditions allow, he could even play a few minutes against Juventus. A gradual, but highly symbolic return.
The return of balance: militão, engine of the defensive renewal
After Markhis influence is not limited to his charisma in the locker room. On the ground, Militão remains one of the most complete elements in the Madrid defensive sector. Its profile combines power, speed, anticipation and control in duels. So many precious qualities, Especially since Xabi Alonso now seems to orient itself towards a three -central systemas successfully tested against Salzburg. In this scheme, the return of a player as versatile as Militão is a boon.
Capable of evolving both in a defense with four and three, the Brazilian provides welcome stability. Solid in the air, serene to recovery, it is also able to advance the game by breaking the ball lines on the foot. His return allows Xabi to have a rich defensive palette: Huijsen, Rüdiger, Militão, Asencio and even Tchouaméni, successfully repositioned in the axis on several occasions.
At the dawn of a crucial match against Juventus, and while Real Madrid hopes to go after this club World Cup, the return of Militão promises to be a turning point. Not yet 100 %, but ready to bring as soon as necessary, it embodies the progressive rise of a Real Madrid which regains its living forces at the right time.
Manon Lafeac
