Real Madrid: 3 reasons why Eder Militao can become the best CB in the world
Real Madrid has now secured three straight clean-sheet victories in all competitions. First, they beat Athletic Club with a narrow 1-0 margin, then they bossed a second-half against Real Sociedad to win 0-2 in the league. And, finally, a thumping 2-0 win against Inter on the final Matchday of the group stages in the Champions League that included two golazos has been the last piece to Real’s run of clean sheets so far.
When both Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane left in the same transfer window, Real’s defensive stability was heavily compromised. However, the new center-back partnership between David Alaba and Eder Militao made things tweak for Real Madrid defensively. Even then Real Madrid was vulnerable to counters and the side didn’t look like one that could secure too many clean sheets.
But, one man above all, has made it possible for this defense to secure three clean sheets in a row. And, he is none other than Real Madrid’s Brazilian Center-back Eder Militao. Militao dropped two back-to-back masterclasses in the two last games against La Real and then Inter. Against La Real, Militao deserved the MOTM recognition that went to Luka Jovic for his stellar performance off the bench.
Well, he wins the MOTM or not, one thing is for sure that is his quality and potential. Eder Militao, in my opinion, is made for the longer aims in football. He started being a key to Real Madrid’s first team after Sergio Ramos’s injury wreaked havoc on Los Blancos’ backline in the second half of season 2020-21. There wasn’t any doubt about him being the first-choice after Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane’s exits were announced. Going at the rate he is right now, I wouldn’t hesitate to argue that Militao can end up becoming the best center-back in the world in the years to come.
First things first, he plays for Real Madrid, and as we all know Real Madrid can be the best Launchpad for future footballing stars. To succeed at Real Madrid is to be counted among the best players in their respective positions on the planet. And, Militao is doing a little more than just succeeding at Real Madrid. In fact, Real Madrid is depending on this young man’s dependable shoulders. Now let’s move to the more compelling reasons why Militao has a shot at becoming the best CB.
Militao’s exceptional aerial prowess is a must-have quality in the modern-day game
Firstly, let’s take our time to appreciate the impressive skillset that this man possesses. May it be the result of exceptionally hard work or natural talent, the man has what it needs to succeed and make a big name for himself at the very highest level of football.
Out of his impressive skillset, his areal defending is something that stands out. As we know, aerial play is a characteristic feature of modern-day football that is largely played on the breaks. Defending crosses and winning aerial duels in the box is a decisive part of any football match and Militao shines in the air. He is winning 2.7 aerial duels every game in the Champions League, the figure in 2.4 for LaLiga, per WhoScored. He also has four MOTM performances under his belt, one in the Champions League and three in the league, per WhoScored.
Militao’s attacking instincts
The second reason I would like to point out is his attacking abilities. He is someone who made a statement towards the end of the last season about his heading. This season we have seen a few more glimpses. This is an argument about how he can become a top CB in the future and hence, improving on his heading can be a big push factor. He has been getting his head at the end of crosses. The resulting shots have been venomous and has troubled the receiving goalkeeper. All Militao needs is a little more precision.
Secondly, in his attacking instincts, I will also count the fabulous balls he launches for the wingers to chase. In the game against Inter, he launched his first ball as early as 40 seconds on the clock for Rodrygo Goes playing down the right. It did run through to Samir Handanovic, but it speaks a lot about Militao’s mentality. He is always on the lookout for more, he wants to contribute to the team securing all three points.
The shot that was spilled by Sevilla’s goalkeeper, Bono for Benzema to follow it up and score an easy tap in was representative of a new addition to Militao’s play. Maybe, it is an influence from his CB partner David Alaba, Militao is seen making attacking runs and shooting from distance these days. And, he does carry the ball well. All of that makes for an impressive attacking skillset for any center-back, a little more polishing can go a long way in his career.
Militao’s character and mentality
The final reason is more in the department of soft skills. Though he is not soft in any way imaginable. Eder Militao has a mentality fit for becoming a top center-back. He is robust, has exceptional strength, and thinks of one thing only- how do I help my team secure this win? He is seen taking up the responsibility for his team in defense. And when the attackers aren’t getting the goals he doesn’t shy away from making the runs too.
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He has shown signs of leadership at the back. He can be seen screaming while setting the defense up for set pieces. He is the first person to recede during counters. He is THE man for Real to depend on during a strange transitioning stage for their defense. And not to forget, he is taking tolls at developing as a CB with yards of green grass behind him comfortable in playing with a high defensive line.