Eder Militao has been ruled out of the 2026 World Cup after suffering a recurrence of a hamstring injury, according to reports. The Real Madrid defender, who recently returned from a four-month layoff, sustained the setback during the 2-1 LaLiga win over Alaves, ending his season and his hopes of representing Brazil this summer.
Severe setback confirmed
The injury, described as a reopening of scar tissue from a previous rupture sustained against Celta Vigo in December, will require surgical intervention. Journalist Miguel Angel Diaz confirmed the news via social media, stating that the clinical outlook is far worse than initially suggested in the club’s cautious medical bulletin.
"Eder Militao will undergo surgery for his new hamstring injury in his left leg," Diaz reported. "The Brazilian suffered a recurrence of the scar tissue from his initial injury. Unfortunately, he will miss the World Cup."
A season of frustration
This latest blow marks another chapter in a deeply disrupted campaign for the 28-year-old. Militao had only returned to action in April, making five appearances since, including a start in the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Bayer Munich. Real Madrid’s medical team had carefully managed his return, but the recurrence has now forced a definitive shutdown.
The club expects Militao to focus on rehabilitation ahead of the 2026-27 season. His absence leaves a significant gap in both Real Madrid’s and Brazil’s defensive plans.
Impact on Brazil and Real Madrid
For Brazil, head coach Carlo Ancelotti must now reconfigure his defensive options for the World Cup without one of his most trusted centre-backs. Militao was expected to be a cornerstone of the Selecao’s backline in the tournament.
At club level, Real Madrid will have to rely on alternative defensive pairings for the remainder of the season. Militao’s surgery and extended recovery mean he will likely not return until pre-season training begins in summer 2026.