Xabi Alonso warns Eder Militao, a firm and well-thought-out decision: 'Not with me...'

One of the most notable absences for Real Madrid in recent seasons has been Eder Militao. Despite his return against PSG in the World Cup, his role in the team has remained an enigma. This was the case until Xabi's recent words: "With me, you won't take risks, I want you to be my starter but you'll start gradually."

The coach from Tolosa, through this, has made it clear that Militao is important to him looking ahead to next season. According to what we know at Defensa Central, the final plan is for Real Madrid's center-back pairing to be Dean Huijsen and Eder Militao. This duo brings together experience as well as youth, with the latter being a very important factor.

Although Rüdiger will start the season as a starter, Militao will gradually get more minutes. After the two injuries he has suffered, Xabi is looking to be very careful with the Brazilian. A relapse or another injury would be the worst for a center-back who remains important.

The plan with Militao

Signed in 2019 from Porto for €50 million, Eder Militao began his time at Real Madrid. Growing more and more both in performance and relevance, Militao became one of the best center-backs in the world. Unfortunately, the 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons brought with them serious cruciate injuries for the Brazilian.

Affected in both knees, his current condition generates some fear of a possible relapse. Although Militao has taken the necessary precautions, Xabi doesn't want to take any risks. At least for the start of the season, Militao will begin as a substitute.

With a contract until 2028 and being 27 years old, his future at Real Madrid is secure. The only thing he needs is to recover his best form as soon as possible. Despite his good performance against PSG, Militao needs to show more to return to the starting line-up.

The return of a great center-back

In what will be his sixth season with Real Madrid, Militao is ready to return to the field. Although Rüdiger is a reliable center-back, his 32 years old is a factor that has been taken into account.  In addition, his mistake against PSG left him in a bad position as he could have avoided this.