Real Madrid: Militao Set for Return, Vinicius Jr. a Doubt for Mallorca Clash
Real Madrid has a significant reason to celebrate this week, with the highly anticipated return of defender Eder Militao from a prolonged injury absence. The Brazilian has been plagued by various injuries over the last three seasons, yet has consistently proven to be a pivotal player for Los Blancos whenever he's fit to play.
Militao notably suffered successive cruciate ligament injuries in 2023 and 2024. Despite these setbacks, he made a commendable comeback earlier this season, quickly re-establishing himself as a crucial component of the squad. However, a subsequent hamstring tear in December sidelined him for another four months of action.
Eder Militao Set for Imminent Return
According to reports, Militao could potentially make his long-awaited reappearance in the upcoming match against RCD Mallorca this weekend. Having trained with the first team throughout the international break, Real Madrid's internal assessment suggests he is prepared to return to competitive play. While a cautious approach will undoubtedly be taken with his reintegration, Militao will be eager to demonstrate his full fitness to Carlo Ancelotti ahead of the World Cup, aiming to reclaim a starting spot from either Antonio Rudiger or Dean Huijsen.
Ferland Mendy Targets Bayern Second Leg Return
In the left-back position, Real Madrid currently has cover with Alvaro Carreras and Fran Garcia. However, Ferland Mendy is still recovering from the physical demands of the recent Manchester City fixture. Reports indicate that Mendy is likely to be back in action either for Real Madrid’s home game against Girona on the 10th or, more significantly, for the Champions League return leg against Bayern Munich on the 15th of the following week.
Vinicius Junior a Doubt for Mallorca Encounter
While Militao's return against Mallorca is a possibility, reports from various sources suggest that Vinicius Junior is unlikely to feature in the starting XI. After missing training with Brazil last weekend, Vinicius has not sustained a new injury but is reportedly experiencing fatigue, leading to a probable decision to rest him.
With Jude Bellingham also anticipated to start on the bench, Kylian Mbappe is expected to lead the attack against Los Bermellones. Real Madrid is keen to maintain pressure on Barcelona before their trip to the Metropolitano to face Atletico Madrid. Further compounding selection challenges, Fede Valverde is absent due to suspension, and key players Rodrygo Goes and Thibaut Courtois remain sidelined with ongoing injuries.
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