Real Madrid defender could receive more minutes in upcoming games after returning from injury

Real Madrid defender could receive more minutes in upcoming games after returning from injury Real Madrid defender Eder Militao could stand to receive greater playing time in the team’s upcoming matches against Racing Santander and AEK Athens. Indeed, according to Bernabeu Digital , manager Jose Mourinho could hand the Brazilian defender more minutes in the next few matches following his recent return from injury. Gradual return for Militao Militao had been out of action since April earlier this year due to an injury that required him to undergo surgery. The senior defender made his comeback earlier this month, featuring as a late substitute in the win against Sevilla, playing five minutes. Following that, however, the 28-year-old centre-back went without playing any minutes in the matches against RB Leipzig and Barcelona last week. Militao returned to action against Sevilla. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) That could change in the coming days as Mourinho plans to use the Brazilian international against Racing Santander tomorrow as well as AEK Athens in the UEFA Champions League next week. The Real Madrid manager wants to manage Militao’s return carefully, given his history with injuries. As such, his reintegration will take place in gradual steps, ensuring that there is no risk of a relapse. While it is too soon for him to start, Militao could get some minutes either against Racing Santander or AEK, or both games, depending on Mourinho’s assessment of the defender’s fitness. Militao return a boost for Real Madrid Militao might not yet be ready to play regularly currently but his return is nonetheless a boost for Real Madrid. An important player for Real Madrid. (Picture credit: Real Madrid official website) The 28-year-old ace is one of the most reliable centre-backs in Europe when fit and available and has been a key player for Los Blancos over the years. His experience at the highest level, coupled with his positioning and strength in duels, make him a valuable asset for Mourinho & co. as they enter a crucial part of the season. The challenge for Militao will be to keep himself fit for the remainder of the season, and for that to happen, it makes sense that the Real Madrid coaching staff manages his return with a degree of caution after six months out of action.