Real Madrid Confidencial Xabi Alonso warns Militão bluntly, only requirement to be a starter again
The coach has asked the Brazilian to regain his top physical condition in order to compete for the starting position with Rüdiger
Eder Militão has been one of the best pieces of news for Real Madrid this preseason. After a season marked by injuries, the Brazilian center-back is training normally again and is shaping up as an important option for Xabi Alonso.
However, the white coach has been clear with him, making it clear that there is no guaranteed spot. To regain his starting position, Militão will have to reach his best physical and competitive level. Only then will he be able to fight for a place in the starting eleven.
Initial plan of Xabi Alonso
The coach's idea is to start the season with Huijsen and Rüdiger as the center-back pairing. The German, though, comes with a particular context: he is 32 years old and is dealing with knee problems due to the osteoarthritis he suffers from. This circumstance, in the medium term, could open the door to more minutes for the Brazilian.
Militão knows that the challenge is great. In addition, he will have to adapt to Xabi's new style, which is more demanding in building from the back and in high pressing.
Another detail to keep in mind: Rüdiger still has to serve a one-match suspension. He was given a six-match ban after being sent off in the Cup final. He has already served five, so he will miss the league debut.
This means that on the first matchday, it is most likely that Huijsen will pair with Asencio in the center of defense. Militão, who has just rejoined, could be drafted, but without rushing his return to the starting line-up.
Direct competition
When he is at 100%, the Brazilian will fight directly with Rüdiger for the spot. Meanwhile, Huijsen has convinced Xabi and seems to have a place in the starting eleven secured. The competition will be tough and the margin for error minimal.
Militão wants to be the defensive leader he was before his injury again. He knows that his physical strength, his speed, and his ability to anticipate can make the difference. He also knows that Xabi Alonso won't give minutes away to anyone.
At Madrid, the message is clear: whoever is in better shape will play. For Militão, that means getting back to one hundred percent of his previous level.
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