Eder Militao nears return to Real Madrid defence after long injury lay‑off

The Brazilian started training with the ball again at the club's training ground this week, giving coach Alvaro Arbeloa and his squad fresh optimism that he could be back playing by the end of March rather than midâ‘April.

Militao, 28, suffered a tear in the hamstring muscle in a La Liga game last December and has not featured for Los Blancos since. Real Madrid's medical team have been cautious with his rehabilitation, and the player will not return to competitive action until he is fully fit to avoid a relapse.

Arbeloa said the progress has been encouraging. "We are seeing Militao make good steps forward with his recovery," the manager explained. "He has been training with the ball, which is an important milestone, but we will only play him when he is completely ready." Real Madrid have missed his presence at the heart of defence, where his pace, aggression and experience are hard to replicate.

Before his injury, Militao had been one of the team's most reliable defenders this season, contributing both defensively and going forward with one goal and one assist in his 16 appearances. His absence has coincided with other defensive issues for Madrid, with youngsters and squad players filling in but without the same consistency.

The Brazil international's return could come just in time for the crucial final phase of the season as Real Madrid push for honours in La Liga and the Champions League. 

Arbeloa added: "His leadership at the back has been missed, and bringing him back gives us more options at a key time."

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