Real Madrid’s Militão Reveals He Contemplated Retirement During Grueling Injury Recovery
In a heartfelt admission, Real Madrid defender Eder Militão has revealed that he considered retiring from football during the challenging recovery from his second serious knee injury, which formed part of a “two difficult years” for the Brazilian.
Real Madrid’s Militão on Retirement Thoughts: “It’s Not Easy to Go Through All That”
Militão has just returned to international duty with Brazil after finally recovering from his injury ordeal.
His troubles began on November 9, 2024, when he suffered a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) with damage to both menisci in his right leg during a league match against Osasuna.
This was his second major blow, having ruptured the ACL in each of his knees just 15 months apart.
The defender described the mental toll of the second recovery process, which was so grueling that quitting the sport crossed his mind.
“With my second injury, I thought about quitting football. It’s not easy to go through all that,” Militão confessed.
He credited his family and his faith for giving him the strength to persevere, stating, “Thanks to (my family), and to my faith, today I am here, strong and ready to give it my all”.
After undergoing surgery and a long eight-month recovery, Militão made his return to the pitch in a Club World Cup semi-final, replacing Asencio in the 64th minute.
His comeback is a significant boost for Real Madrid, who are currently navigating a defensive injury crisis, with key defender Antonio Rüdiger ruled out for a prolonged period due to a muscle injury in his left leg.
Now fully fit and having built a solid centre-back partnership with summer signing Dean Huijsen, Militão is once again a crucial player for manager Xabi Alonso.
His return to the highest level provides a compelling story of resilience, just as his team needs him most for critical upcoming fixtures.
