Eder Militao admits he is in ‘severe pain’ after Real Madrid return

Eder Militao said he was suffering from “severe pain” after completing 90 minutes of Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory away to AEK Athens in the Champions League on Wednesday.

The result extended Real Madrid’s winning run in domestic and European competition, but Militao’s condition was a concern after the Brazil centre-back played a full match for the first time since 15 April.

That previous appearance came against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Militao had subsequently spent six months out with injury and is now being brought back gradually as he rebuilds his fitness.

Speaking to Real Madrid’s television channel after the match, Militao said: “I feel good, but I am suffering from severe pain. I am happy to be back and able to do what I love so much after six months out, and to play 90 minutes.

“We all have to be ready because there are a lot of matches ahead. Mourinho is managing things very well.”

Real Madrid manager Mourinho acknowledged that selecting Militao from the start involved an element of risk after such a lengthy absence.

“With Militao, we took a little risk by starting him after such a long time out,” he said.

Mourinho added: “Even Militao himself had a slightly more difficult start in reaching his speed and match rhythm, but he settled down afterwards and had a very good game.”

Militao also offered support to Vinicius Jr, who he said remained positive despite currently struggling to find the net.

“He is always an optimistic person,” Militao told TNT. “Things are not going as he would like at the moment, but he never stops working. I think everyone can see that he keeps trying and, unfortunately, he is not scoring goals.

“But I believe he is still contributing, and contributing a lot. He is a very important player for our team. I think that, at the right time, he will overcome this bad spell. He is someone who deserves a lot, and I believe he will come back strongly.”

The fixture listings associated with the teams include Valencia against Real Madrid in La Liga on 07 November 2026. AEK Athens are listed in the Greek Super League against Levadiakos on 08 November 2026.

Real Madrid’s victory in Athens came in the fourth round of the Champions League, with the Spanish side holding on for a narrow win despite the scrutiny surrounding Militao’s return to full-match action.