Real Madrid’s defensive crisis has deepened with defender Éder Militão officially ruled out of the team’s upcoming Champions League match against Kairat Almaty.
Alonso Loses Another Defender as Militao Joins Real Madrid’s Injury List
The Brazilian international was forced off at half-time during Saturday’s 5-2 derby defeat to Atlético Madrid after making a goal-saving tackle on Alexander Sorloth.
While the ankle issue is not considered serious, the club has decided not to risk the defender for the trip to Kazakhstan.
Militão’s absence compounds an already severe injury situation for manager Xabi Alonso.
The team is already without captain Dani Carvajal, who sustained a calf injury to his soleus muscle and is expected to be sidelined for four to five weeks.
Key defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold, Antonio Rüdiger, and Ferland Mendy are also unavailable for the fixture.
With a recognized senior right-back now unavailable, Alonso is expected to get creative with his lineup.
Raúl Asencio, who has featured in the role this season, is now likely to be partnered with Dean Huijsen in central defense, creating a vacancy at right-back.
Federico Valverde is the anticipated solution, with the Uruguayan midfielder poised to fill the defensive role.
His shift to the back line could open a spot in midfield for Eduardo Camavinga to make his first start of the season, or for Dani Ceballos to feature.
The match in Almaty is Real Madrid’s second in the Champions League group stage, following an opening victory over Marseille. The team will be aiming to secure a second win despite the significant absences in defense.
