Eder Militao ruled out of FIFA World Cup 2026

Real Madrid's Brazilian defender Eder Militao is facing a significant period on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring injury that will necessitate surgery. The severe setback means the centre-back will miss the upcoming FIFA World Cup, a major blow for both club and country.

The injury occurred during a recent match against Alavés, with Spanish outlets AS and MARCA reporting, quoted by Managing Madrid, the extent of the damage and the need for surgical intervention. Militao is expected to be out of action for approximately four months, with his return anticipated for the start of the 2026-27 season.

Previous injury context and re-injury

This latest injury marks a particularly cruel turn of events for Militao, who had previously sustained a similar hamstring issue last winter. On that occasion, the Brazilian international opted against surgery, a decision that, according to reports, left him with a high risk of re-injury. That risk unfortunately materialized during the game against Alavés, leading to the current, more severe predicament.

The enforced absence means Militao will miss the opportunity to feature in what would have been his second World Cup. He made his tournament debut in the 2022 edition, establishing himself as a key figure for the Brazilian national team. His presence will be sorely missed as Brazil prepares for the global showpiece.

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Real Madrid will also feel the impact of losing a central defender of Militao's calibre for a substantial portion of their campaign. The club will now have to navigate a demanding schedule without one of their most reliable defensive assets, relying on their squad depth to cover his absence.

Sources: www.managingmadrid.com

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