Real Madrid coaching staff convinced returning defender can become key starter again – report

According to a report from Defensa Central, Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho and his assistant Sami Khedira are convinced that Eder Militao can return to a starting role if he completes his recovery without further setbacks.

The Brazilian has resumed training at Valdebebas after being given a week away from the squad. 

As such, his return comes around five months after undergoing surgery following a hamstring rupture suffered in April.

As a result of these developments, Mourinho’s coaching staff see Militao’s recovery as one of the most significant developments Real Madrid could have heading into October.

Militao’s return could change Mourinho’s defence

Militao has been working alongside players who remained in Madrid during the international break, as well as teammates returning from minor fitness problems such as Kylian Mbappe and Ibrahima Konate.

Eder Militao resumed training alongside his Real Madrid teammates. (Picture credit: Real Madrid official website)

His presence has reportedly lifted the mood around the training ground, particularly because his physical condition appears to be progressing better than expected. 

Furthermore, footage of the centre-back jogging at Valdebebas has offered another encouraging indication that his comeback is moving closer.

For what it is worth, Real Madrid have several reasons to welcome his return because Militao’s pace allows the team to defend with a higher line, while his strength in aerial challenges and one-on-one situations gives Mourinho another defensive option.

Real Madrid could have Militao for the Clasico

Real Madrid face Barcelona at Camp Nou on October 25 in the first Clasico of the season, which remains a major target for the Brazilian if his rehabilitation continues without complications.

Defensa Central describes his return as potentially the club’s biggest piece of positive news in October, particularly with Real Madrid needing to close a six-point gap to Barcelona.

Militao’s return will be a big boost for Real Madrid. (Picture credit: Real Madrid official website)

Indeed, there is still plenty of work to complete before Militao can be considered ready for competitive action, but his progress gives Mourinho an additional option at a position where the squad has faced several complications.

Militao faces competition from Konate and Huijsen

For now, Konate and Dean Huijsen have emerged as Mourinho’s preferred centre-back pairing, while Antonio Rudiger has struggled for continuity following his knee surgeries.

Raul Asensio has also been unable to make his debut because of physical problems, leaving Militao’s eventual return potentially important for the manager’s rotation plans.

The Brazilian will not necessarily walk straight back into the XI, but his qualities give Mourinho something different from his current options.