Real Madrid's Victory Over Athletic Bilbao Must Be Paid High

Real Madrid defender Eder Militao. (Photo: Twitter/@RealMadrid)

JAKARTA - Real Madrid successfully defeated Athletic Bilbao in the first week of La Liga Spain 2023/2024. However, the victory had to be paid dearly.

Real Madrid centre-back Eder Militao suffered an ACL (anterior crude league) injury in the match which took place at the San Mames Stadium, Sunday, August 13, local time.

The ACL injury hit Militao's left foot. He is also predicted to be absent long because he has to undergo surgery for recovery.

"Following the results of the medical tests that have been carried out, Eder Militao was diagnosed with anterior ligament in his left knee. Players will undergo surgery in the next few days," Real Madrid wrote in an official statement.

The Brazilian national team defender felt pain in his left leg in the 50th minute after chasing Athletic Bilbao player Ohian Sancet but had to fall due to wrong footing.

The 25-year-old player was later found to have suffered an ACL injury. Los Blancos are expected to lose Militao until the end of this season for treatment, as reported by Antara.

And with the loan of centre-back Jesus Vallejo to Granada, currently Real Madrid currently only leaves two central defenders as options to replace Militao, namely Antonio Rudiger and Nacho Fernandez.

The two will compete for a post to duet with David Alaba in the back line. Real Madrid is also still not moving to find a replacement for one post in the back line.

El Real is currently focusing on finding a replacement for goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who previously also suffered an ACL injury and is certain to miss until the end of the season.