Real Madrid defender Éder Militão spoke candidly in a press conference with the Brazilian national team today, reflecting on the physical and emotional challenges he has faced over the past two years.
The centre-back, who has endured two serious injuries in quick succession, admitted that the second setback nearly pushed him to give up the game entirely.
“With my second injury, I thought about quitting football. It’s not easy to go through all that,” Militão said.
The Brazilian tore his ACL in August 2023, just as he was establishing himself as one of the best defenders in the world. After months of grueling rehabilitation, he made his return late in the season, only to suffer another setback in 2024 that forced him back to the sidelines.
Militão revealed that during his lowest moments, it was the support of his family and his faith that helped him stay grounded and motivated.
“Thanks to them (my family), and to my faith, I’m here today, strong and ready to give it my all,” he added.
The 26-year-old described how the experience of dealing with two long-term injuries changed his outlook on football and life.
“It’s been two difficult years, with two very complicated injuries,” he said. “You face the second one differently because you already know the process. It’s not easy. You have to be very attached to your family, to God… It takes away your routine, what you’re used to doing, training. Suddenly, you’re at home, depending on help, on someone to help you. Thank God, I recovered from the injuries and returned to the highest level, which isn’t easy.”
