Real Madrid defensive ace in the ‘penultimate stage’ of his recovery – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been without one of their key defenders, Eder Militao, for more than three months now, having suffered an injury back in December.

The Brazilian international’s absence has been a blow for Los Blancos, even more so with the likes of Antonio Rudiger, Dean Huijsen, and Raul Asencio all having had fitness problems during this period.

Militao return edging closer

But in a positive update, journalist Melchor Ruiz of COPE reports that Militao has entered the ‘penultimate stage’ of his recovery and is getting closer to a return.

The 28-year-old centre-back has already begun working with the ball on the pitch and did some training with his teammates earlier today in what is a major boost for Real Madrid.

Previous reports had suggested that the defender could be poised to make a comeback towards the end of March, and the latest update points towards the same as well.

Militao closing in on a comeback. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Real Madrid’s final game of this month will be played on 22 March, when they take on Atletico Madrid in the derby, but it is unlikely the defender will return in time for that match.

After that, the first international break of 2026 will arrive, allowing Militao an additional couple of weeks to recover and get ready for his comeback.

So far this season, the 28-year-old defensive heavyweight has played 16 matches across all competitions, scoring and assisting one goal apiece.

His availability, heading into the final phase of the campaign, will be a major boost for Alvaro Arbeloa and Real Madrid.