Real Madrid has confirmed that they have another long-term injury problem as defender Eder Militao was substituted in their 2-0 victory away at Athletic Club on Saturday in their 2023/24 La Liga season opener.

The Los Blancos were without their goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois on the season-opening day as he was ruled out of the first part of the season with an ACL injury last week. The situation has put the capital club into the transfer market, searching for an alternative goalkeeper to second choice Andriy Lunin. Reports have revealed that Chelsea’s Kepa Arizabalaga will join the team on loan.

They may have to add a defender to their shopping list before the summer transfer window closes after Saturday’s fixture. Carlo Ancelotti’s side were having it rosy after a quick 2-0 lead in the first half, with goals coming in from Rodrygo and summer signing from Borussia Dortmund Jude Bellingham.

After a successful first half for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, the second half started on a bad note as Militão had to leave the pitch five minutes into the second half. After the tests carried out on the player by the club on Sunday revealed that he tore his ACL and may require surgery.

“Following tests carried out on our player Éder Militão; he has been diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. The player will undergo surgery in the coming days.” the statement read.

Real Madrid will now go into week 2, hoping to build on their opening day result as Barcelona were held to a goalless draw in a dramatic game away at Getafe. The La Liga champions had Brazilian forward Raphinha sent off midway into the first half before Getafe were also reduced to 10 men as well in the second half. A late penalty call for Barcelona was overturned by the VAR, leaving the defending champions with a poor start to the season.

Daniel Ademiju Idowu