Madrid thrashed WSG Tirol by four goals in a friendly face-off before the season opener against Osasuna in a week. Meanwhile, the summer transfer window is still open and breathing, but the prospects of Real Madrid making more signings are very slim, almost none if we are being honest.
I have previously said that Real Madrid absolutely need another centre-back signing, but that claim came with the caveat of uncertainty around Eder Militao’s return to form after back-to-back injuries.
And I think it is time I gave the verdict: Real Madrid may not really need another centre-back now.
Eder Militao clearly displayed against Tirol that he is back in form. Even though an argument to the contrary could be made on the grounds of the opponent’s low stature, it cannot be denied that Militao has just returned from a major injury, and anyone who watched the game could vouch that he was rock solid regardless of the opposing view.
Real Madrid's latest injury return is as good as a new signing
With time and more regular minutes, it should take very little for the Brazilian to regain the level he had before. He can easily become the undisputed starter alongside Dean Huijsen if given the right opportunity by Xabi Alonso.
In the 62 minutes he played, Militao recorded a 92% passing accuracy, won three out of four aerial duels, and even scored the opening goal. This was a complete centre-back performance, reminiscent of what Militao used to deliver week in and week out.
So yes, this return from injury is a sigh of relief and as good as a new signing. Ibrahima Konate, for one, can wait another season before Madrid sign him on a free. The case of William Saliba remains unclear, as he hinted at a renewal with Arsenal a few weeks ago. Either way, Real Madrid move.