When Sergio Ramos leftReal Madrid, many expected the team’s defence to collapse. After all, the Spanish legєɴԀ departed in the same window as Raphael Varane, leavingLos Blancoswithout both their starting choice centre-backs.
Eder Militao was thus given centre stage, and he grabbed at the opportunity with both hands. The youngster settled into the dynamics with ease and made the defensive transition at the club go almost unnoticed, soon growing into a mainstay of a team that has won all possible trophies over the past two seasons.
In his 33 La Liga appearances last season, the 25-year-old scored a stunning five goals forReal Madridin addition to being a solid cog in the back line. He averaged 1.2 interceptions, 1.4 tackles, three clearances, and a staggering 4.8 duels won per 90 minutes, seeing ten clean sheets in the process.
The Brazilian recently gave an interview where he opened up about Karim Benzema and hissudden departurefromReal Madridearlier this summer. He insisted that it would be difficult to replace the French superstar.
“Benzema? Of course we were upset that he left. For me, he’s the best #9 in the world. But life goes on, we now have to structure ourselves again,”Militao said (h/tMadrid Xtra).
Militao has rightly been included in the debate for the best active defєɴԀer in world football in recent years in the wake of his consistent and high-quality performances. When asked about the same, he remained rooted to the ground, saying:
“I’ve been getting a lot of praise but I still have a lot to learn. I’m on the right path but I have to dedicate myself even more.”
Finally, the Brazilian defєɴԀer went on to praise his teammate and compatriot Vinicius Jr for the magic he produces on the field day in and day out. He had very special words for the young trickster as he said,
“For me, Viní Jr is the best player in the world.”
