Huge blow for Brazil! Eder Militao ruled out of 2026 World Cup

Real Madrid defender Eder Militao has been ruled out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the confirmation of a devastating thigh injury.

Militao who has endured nine separate injuries and three surgeries since the conclusion of the last World Cup, suffered this fresh injury during Real Madrid’s victory over Alaves at the Bernabeu.

Despite initially being substituted at half-time as a suspected precaution, the diagnosis worsened rapidly.

The defender had remained hopeful, even undergoing a second MRI in Madrid on Monday before flying to Finland where it was confirmed he will need surgery.

Eder Militao leaving the pitch injured during Real Madrid v Deportivo Alaves at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu (Photo by M Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images)

Militao reportedly received the heartbreaking diagnosis after consulting with a specialist in Finland.

According to report from Globo, the consultation revealed a severe injury to his left thigh that carries a high risk of a complete tendon rupture. Left with no other viable option to save his long-term career, the Brazil international has accepted the recommendation for surgery, which is scheduled to take place this Tuesday.

This medical intervention means the 28-year-old is facing an extensive period on the sidelines, with his return to action not expected until October at the earliest.

In what would also be a huge blow for both club and country, Militao would miss the rest of the season and must wait until 2030 to feature at another World Cup.

Militao joins Real Madrid teammate Rodrygo – who will also miss Brazil’s trip to North America this summer due to injury.