Xabi Alonso retains full faith in Real Madrid key defender despite injury woes | OneFootball

As Real Madrid gear up for the new season, one of the burning questions is who will partner Dean Huijsen at the heart of the team’s four-man backline.

Xabi Alonso has had a difficult time identifying his strongest defensive options, especially with Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao struggling with fitness while Raul Asencio’s form has been woeful, to say the least.

This has even led to speculation linking Real Madrid with a move for another centre-back this summer.

Xabi Alonso has full faith in Eder Militao

However, despite the recent rumours, it appears Xabi Alonso has full faith in Real Madrid’s strongest existing option, Eder Militao.

This is according to journalist Ruben Martin, who suggests that Militao has the potential to overcome his fitness woes and regain top form, sooner rather than later.

The Brazilian international missed out most of last season due to a long-term injury and only returned in the recently concluded FIFA Club World Cup.

Eder Militao is rated highly by coach Xabi Alonso (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Militao made his comeback in the semi-final clash against PSG, which Real Madrid lost 4-0.

Although Los Blancos received quite the beating in that game, Militao was one of the team’s better performers after he came on as a substitute during the final phase of the game.

The former Porto starlet steadied the ship in defence and impressed coach Alonso, who is favouring him to become the main partner for Huijsen at centre-back next season.

Real Madrid, therefore, are expected to give the Brazilian the time and confidence he needs to regain rhythm and consistency.

While the club may still keep an eye on the market, the club retain faith and trust in Militao’s services and his ability to emerge as the leader in the defensive unit.