LaLiga’s most successful side Real Madrid are expecting the return of Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao following ligament injury back in August. The club manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that the nearest date for both players to play again is next month.
Both players have returned to training for weeks. This will be a huge boost for Madrid’s title-chasing campaign, currently topping the league with six point-lead to Girona at the second place.
Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao could be back in mid-April
Despite the returning date remains unknown, Ancelotti estimates those players will return in mid-April. The Italian manager is planning to give Courtois and Eder more rest, ensuring the full-fitness of both players.
“The date has not been set,” said Ancelotti according to Football Espana. “But we have to take advantage of the national team break and then the mini-break from the Copa del Rey.”
“At that time they will do some work with the team. After April 14, after Mallorca, they could be ready.”
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As Ancelotti estimated, it is likely for Courtois and Eder to get their feet on the pitch seven games before the season ends. Which means it is possible for them to take part in the El Clasico in Santiago Bernabeu.
Not to mention the Champions League, if they’re going through. Madrid still have another 90 minutes to secure the quarter final spot. With a 1-0 away win over RB Leipzig, Ancelotti’s squad have an advantage of playing the decisive leg at home. The match is set to take place at Santiago Bernabeu next midweek.
During Courtois’ absence; Madrid put trust on Kepa Arrizabalaga and Andriy Lunin under the net. They shared 18 and 19 games respectively for the team across the competitions. Despite losing two important figures for the team, Ancelotti praised his players’ determination to give the best out of them throughout the season.
“Taking into account the injuries, we must bear in mind that the squad has never given up despite the difficulties, now comes the good part, in April and May when things are on the line,” he added. “We will see the return of Militao and Courtois, who very close… with this dynamic it could be a very positive season.”
Both Courtois and Eder suffered the same type of ligament injury, in the same month. This resulted in the longest staying-off-the-pitch duration for both players. Courtois has missed 45 matches for Los Blancos, meanwhile Eder has been absent for 39 outings.