Good news for Real Madrid as key defender enters final phase of injury recovery | OneFootball

Real Madrid key defender Eder Militao continues to make progress in his recovery after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee on 9 November during a match against Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabeu.

It was a cruel setback for the Brazilian international, as he had already suffered the same injury in his left knee in August 2023.

Despite the devastating blow, the Brazilian has remained resilient and worked hard on his recovery and his efforts are starting to bear fruit.

Militao entering the final phase of recovery

Indeed, according to AS, Militao is now entering the final phase of his recovery and is set to take a significant step forward after the international break by returning to pitch work and gradually reintroducing ball exercises.

Since undergoing surgery, Militao has focused primarily on strengthening his muscles – both in his injured leg and across his body. In recent weeks, he has made significant strides in his running ability, and his knee has shown the stability required to advance to the next stage.

The 27-year-old’s rehabilitation has included a combination of light aerobic work, strength and coordination exercises, and cognitive training.

Technology has played a key role in his rehabilitation. Militao has completed underwater exercises at Valdebebas, using a submerged treadmill and pool workouts, and has utilised a hyperbaric chamber at home for oxygen therapy.

Militao suffered the injury in November last year. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

The defender’s recovery has been split between sessions at Real Madrid’s training facility and his home gym, closely monitored by his personal trainer, Romario Queiroz.

Approximately 70% of his rehab has taken place at Valdebebas, while he dedicates three to four days per week to additional work at home, with the remaining time reserved for rest.

When can Militao return?

The medical team has carefully managed Militao’s workload to prevent overexertion and ensure a gradual recovery.

The mental aspect of his recovery has been just as important as the physical. Suffering two serious injuries in such a short time could have been demoralising, but the defender has approached his second rehabilitation process with positivity and determination.

The key question remains: when will Militao be available again? His camp is reluctant to set a specific timeline, but Real Madrid are hopeful.

The Spanish and European champions aim to have the centre-back reintegrated into the first-team setup for the final stretch of the season, which extends until mid-July due to the Club World Cup.