Real Madrid’s dominant 4-0 victory over Osasuna in La Liga on Saturday was marred by a devastating injury, with star defender Eder Militao suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The Brazilian central defender is expected to undergo surgery, sidelining him for several months in what marks his second lengthy injury absence in as many seasons.

Militao’s injury occurred early in the match as he attempted to clear a bouncing ball, but he hyperextended his knee, immediately signaling distress as he fell in visible pain. The 26-year-old was helped off the field, visibly emotional as he faced the reality of another long-term setback.

Real Madrid confirmed the severity of the injury in a statement, revealing that Militao had suffered a “complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament with both menisci involved” in his right leg. Surgery is planned in the coming days, and his absence adds to a worrying trend for Los Blancos as they face a growing list of sidelined players.

Aside from Militao, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was dealt further blows on Saturday as Lucas Vázquez and striker Rodrygo were both forced off the pitch due to injuries. Already short of defensive options, Ancelotti faces the difficult prospect of managing an increasingly tense squad heading into key La Liga and Champions League matches.

With the absence of Militao, Real Madrid are thin in defense, as the team was already missing Dani Carvajal, Thibaut Courtois, Aurélien Tchouameni and David Alaba. Ancelotti expressed his frustration but noted he would rely on the club’s youth academy to fill critical gaps until the transfer window opens in January.

“I’m not thinking about signings at the moment because we have to prepare for the matches with the players we have,” Ancelotti said in his post-match press conference. “Three injuries in the first half is quite rare. The demanding schedule does not allow players to rest and be fresh.

The coach praised the contributions of academy defender Raul Asencio, who came off the bench to help see the match through, and Federico Valverde, who played brilliantly as a full-back. “We did well last year when we had injuries, and we will do the same this year,” he added.

With Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy and Fran Garca now the only fit and experienced defenders in the team, Ancelotti has a tough few months ahead of him. As Real Madrid face a demanding schedule, the club hopes to stabilize its injury list before making mid-season reinforcements in January.