The Blancos will have to play without one of their key defenders this season.
Real Madrid defender Eder Miliato has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.
Militao started for the Blancos in their 2-0 win over Athletic Bilbao on Saturday. However, he left the pitch in tears in the 50th minute, suffering a knee injury.
Further tests have now shown Militao’s ACL injury will keep him out of action until the end of the season. The news comes only a few days after Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois suffered a similar injury.
“Following tests carried out on our player Eder Militao, he has been diagnosed with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee,” Real Madrid’s statement reads.
The club have confirmed Militao will undergo surgery in the coming days.
The Brazil international’s absence will leave Carlo Ancelotti with only three center-back options: David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, and Nacho. The recent departures of Rafa Marin and Pablo Marin from Real Madrid’s second team have also decreased the squad depth in defense.
The Blancos are on the verge of signing Kepa Arrizabalaga as their replacement for Courtois. However, finding a new center-back to cover for Miliato’s absence could be more challenging.
Real Madrid will travel to Almeria for their next La Liga match on Saturday.