Real Madrid breathe easy as defensive mainstay avoids serious injury vs Alaves | OneFootball

According to reports emerging from Jose Luis Sanchez, Eder Militao sparked immediate concern at Real Madrid after being forced off early against Alaves, but initial fears of a serious injury have now been dismissed.

The incident happened in the added minutes of the first-half, when Militao went close to scoring with an effort that struck the crossbar inside the opposition penalty area.

Moments later, however, the defender signalled discomfort and quickly called for medical assistance, raising alarm both on the pitch and on the bench.

Given his recent injury history, including two cruciate ligament tears, the reaction from within the club was one of immediate concern. 

The possibility of another knee issue was the first fear, especially considering the nature of how he went down after the attacking move.

Real Madrid’s medical team responded quickly, and the decision was made to substitute him without delay. 

During this period, Aurelien Tchouameni temporarily dropped into defence, while Antonio Rudiger prepared to come on as a replacement.

Sigh of relief for Real Madrid

Militao left the pitch without visible difficulty, which was the first sign that the situation might not be as serious as initially feared. 

He was then assessed in the dressing room, where early examinations provided encouraging news.

The issue was identified as a cramp-like sensation in the back of his left thigh, the same area where he had previously suffered an injury. 

The defender chose not to take any risks and requested to be substituted immediately to avoid aggravating the problem.

Crucially, there were no indications of structural damage or a fresh long-term injury. 

The medical staff’s early assessment suggests that the substitution was precautionary rather than necessary due to a serious condition.

This will come as a major relief for Real Madrid, especially at a time when squad fitness is critical and with the FIFA World Cup also approaching. 

For now, the situation appears under control. What initially looked like a potentially serious setback has turned into a minor scare, one that Real Madrid will be grateful to have avoided.