Militão Considered Quitting Football Last Year

Brazilian defender Éder Militão revealed that he contemplated quitting football last year after a prolonged period sidelined by injuries.

Since 2023, Militão had spent significant time out of the field due to recurring injuries. Even after returning the first time, he suffered a second major injury, which left him deeply frustrated.

• He was sidelined for over 400 days, missing 94 matches for Real Madrid.
• His injuries primarily involved the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
• First injury: August 2023, left knee.
• Second injury: November 2024, right knee.
• Return to play: June 2025, starting with the FIFA Club World Cup.

After nearly a year, Militão has now returned to the Brazilian national squad, selected for the upcoming match against South Korea. Before the match, he shared his journey of recovery and resilience.

He said: “After the second injury, a lot was going through my mind. I even considered quitting football because nothing was easy. But with the support of my wife, my daughter, and my teammates, I am here today to play well.”

He added: “Recovering from an injury is not easy. You must stay deeply connected with your family and with the Creator… suddenly having to rely on others for everyday things at home is tough. Thanks to the Creator, I have recovered from my injury and returned to top-level football, which is not easy.”