Real Madrid is facing a challenging start to the 2023/24 season, having lost their star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, and now, they must navigate a significant portion (at least) of the season without the talented Brazilian center-back, Eder Militao, due to his recent injury sustained during a comfortable victory against Athletic Club. While Militao has taken some time to settle in Spain, he has developed into one of the world’s finest defenders over the past few years. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, although Carlo Ancelotti does have several replacement options in central defense.
Four Potential Replacements for Injured Eder Militao:
1.Aymeric Laporte:
Formerly a vital part of Pep Guardiola’s lineup, Laporte has seen his playing time reduced due to the development of Man City. Madrid could capitalize on this situation if Man City receives a reasonable offer. With the emergence of Josko Gvardiol, Laporte’s minutes may continue to dwindle, as seen in the season’s opener for Man City.
Securing Laporte as a potential replacement for Militao could be relatively straightforward. Laporte has La Liga experience from his time at Athletic Club, making him an attractive option for Real Madrid.
2.Benjamin Pavard:
Another player discontent with his position at a European giant, Pavard is rumored to be eager to move, even if it means leaving behind the prospect of playing alongside Sir Harold Kane. While Manchester United has shown interest in the elegant Frenchman, the deal has yet to be finalized.
This presents an opportunity for Real Madrid to make a move. Pavard is not only proficient in defensive skills but also primarily operates as a right-back since his transfer from Stuttgart to Bayern. Madrid’s premium right-back options are currently limited to Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez.
3.Antonio Silva:
The potential transfer fee for Silva from Benfica may pose a challenge for Madrid in the late stages of the summer transfer window. However, Silva is a rising ‘galactico’ talent. He has rapidly progressed in Portugal, and it won’t be long before he’s discussed in conversations about Europe’s top center-backs.
At 19 years old, Silva showcases impressive maturity for a teenage defender, with enormous potential. Madrid could potentially outmaneuver the pursuing pack and act early. They could utilize the funds they’ve saved from not pursuing Kylian Mbappe.
4.Thiago Silva:
While this scenario might be unlikely and somewhat unconventional, it holds some intrigue. Thiago Silva remains a top-class defender and one of the best around, but he might not feature as prominently in Mauricio Pochettino’s rebuilding efforts due to Chelsea’s talented young center-backs.
Although it would be challenging for the Blues to part with such an invaluable leader and exceptional performer, Madrid could consider this challenge. Silva could integrate smoothly at Madrid, adding another wise head to the club’s youthful revolution. The Brazilian has succeeded in Italy, France, and England but has yet to venture to the Iberian Peninsula.
Silva might be the ultimate solution if all else fails.
