Real Madrid and Brazil have been dealt a major injury concern after defender Éder Militão suffered a new hamstring problem that could put his place at the 2026 World Cup in serious doubt. Real Madrid confirmed on April 23 that tests revealed a muscle injury in the biceps femoris of his left leg, adding that his recovery would be monitored.
The concern increased on April 25 when Reuters reported that sources close to both Real Madrid and the Brazil camp believe Militão is at significant risk of missing the World Cup. According to the report, the injury may be a recurrence of the issue he suffered in December, with further medical evaluations expected before a final decision on treatment.
That earlier injury was severe. On December 8, 2025, Real Madrid confirmed Militão had suffered a rupture of the biceps femoris tendon in his left leg, specifically affecting the proximal tendon. Although he worked his way back from that setback, this latest issue has raised fears of another serious breakdown at a critical stage, with the tournament now less than two months away.
Militão picked up the injury during Real Madrid’s win over Alavés, feeling discomfort before halftime and signalling immediately to be substituted. What initially appeared to be a routine muscular issue now looks more serious.
Reuters also reported that Spanish media had suggested surgery could be required, while its own sources confirmed growing concern over his World Cup availability.
For Brazil, the situation is particularly worrying. Militão has been one of the team’s key defenders when fit, but his recent career has been repeatedly disrupted by injuries. Reuters noted he has already suffered ACL tears in consecutive years, adding further uncertainty as national teams prepare for the World Cup.
At this stage, Real Madrid have only confirmed a left hamstring injury, while reports of possible surgery and a likely World Cup absence remain unconfirmed. However, the outlook has clearly worsened, and Militão now faces an anxious wait for further medical results.
