The defender talked to AS ahead of what will be a crucial chance for him to start the game against City.
It hasn’t been an easy season for Real Madrid defender Eder Militao. While the center-back probably knew he wasn’t going to be a starter in his debut season in the club, coach Zinedine Zidane has not made many rotations on his defensive line and that has had an impact on Militao’s minutes. However, the Br azilian defender will enjoy a crucial chance to prove his worth when Real Madrid visit Manchester City in the return leg of the Champions League Round of 16 next week, given Ramos’ suspension.
Militao talked to AS and reviewed his season and his feelings ahead of that game.
"It’s an amazing feeling, a unique chance for me to give it all. Ramos will not be there and I have to put my heart and soul out there. It’s my big chance to prove that I can be trusted in tough games. I am getting ready and I try to give my teammates confidence. I hope it can be an unbelievable game," said Militao.
The defender has shown potential when given the chance to play but it’s also fair to say that he had some lapses in his concentration. He’s still a very young player whose skill set could be valuable going forward.
"I’ve improved my preparation for each game. My focus and concentration is even bigger ahead of the big games. I get ready psychologically and each training session is different, we try to preview things that could happen in Manchester," revealed Militao.
The defender explained that Casemiro and Marcelo are his two biggest friends in the dressing room.
"I get along fine with everybody, but Casemiro is the one player who always talks to me and says the most important things. Marcelo as well. With Casemiro I have a bigger friendship, he’s always supporting me, we play together in Br azil," he said.
Militao showed he has the ability to score goals during his season with Porto last year. However, he’s failed to score his first goal for Madrid. The defender is hoping to help Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium.
"I imagine my first goal now, in Manchester. The winning goal, a header. I wouldn’t know how to celebrate it, to be honest. Everything is possible and I will go after it," added Militao.
The Br azilian center-back also talked about his relationship with coach Zinedine Zidane, who wasn’t at the club yet when Real Madrid completed the signing of Militao.
"We get along very well. When I’m going to play he always talks to me the day before and also the day of the game. He wants me to be focused so that I can play well," reveals Militao.
Then, he was asked whether it surprised him seeing how close to his players Zidane is.
"No, I expected it," he added.
Militao concluded the interview sending a message to the fans.
"Real Madrid fans, we won’t have our captain against Manchester City but I will be there. I will play a good game, trust me. We will come out victorious," said a confident Militao.