Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has recalled defender Éder Militao to the squad for Sunday’s La Liga match against Sevilla at the Bernabéu, marking the Brazilian’s return after more than five months sidelined by injury.
According to ESPN sources, Militao’s performance in training has been excellent, but the club is approaching his return carefully. The caution reflects a pattern: Militao has suffered serious injuries in three consecutive seasons at Real Madrid, and the coaching staff wants to prevent further setbacks.
Militao last appeared in May and has not featured in a squad since then. His potential involvement against Sevilla could mean limited minutes as he rebuilds match fitness.
Real Madrid will still be without three other players for the Sevilla match. Ferland Mendy, Raúl Asencio, and Rodrygo Goes are continuing their recovery. Mendy is closest to returning, training with the full squad and progressing through rehabilitation stages, though the club has not announced a specific return date. Asencio and Rodrygo are not expected back until early 2027.
Coach Mourinho declined to reveal whether the squad list signals lineup changes for Sunday, despite a strong performance by substitute players in a recent Roma match. When asked if those who came off the bench deserve more playing time, Mourinho acknowledged the difficulty of selection: “Compañeros míos que están entrenando equipos con menos soluciones que yo estarán diciendo: ‘José, qué suerte tienes de tener problemas como este’,” he said, noting that having a deep squad presents both advantages and challenges.
The full squad for the Sevilla match includes goalkeepers Thibaut Courtois, Andriy Lunin, and Javi Navarro; eight defenders including the returning Militao alongside Alexander-Arnold, Dumfries, Huijsen, Rüdiger, Konaté, Carreras, and Cucurella; seven midfielders including Bellingham, Valverde, Tchouaméni, and Bernardo Silva; and five forwards led by Mbappé and Endrick.
Key facts
- Militao returns to Real Madrid squad after five-month injury absence
- Brazilian defender suffered serious injuries in three consecutive seasons at the club
- Mendy, Asencio, and Rodrygo remain sidelined; Asencio and Rodrygo not expected back until early 2027
- Mourinho declined to confirm lineup changes despite strong performance from substitute players