Real Madrid defender Eder Militao came off the bench in Sunday's 4-1 win over Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabeu. It ended a 181-day absence from competitive football, Madrid Universal reported.
The Brazilian then posted a message of thanks to supporters on Instagram.
Goal put his entrance in the 85th minute and said he had been out since April 21 with a serious injury. The home crowd rose to applaud. He got a standing ovation as he stepped on.
Militao thanks fans, family and team-mates
In his Instagram post, Militao called it a special night. Coming back after so long, and being met with that affection from the fans, was unforgettable, he said.
Madrid Universal said he described the reception as one he would not forget.
He also thanked God, his family, his wife and the whole squad for the victory. Madrid Universal said the post came after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Huijsen and Cucurella praise his character
Goal spoke to two team-mates after the match. Defender Dean Huijsen said everyone knows what kind of player Militao is. A stadium ovation is given for a reason, he added.
He called him a great guy and a great player, and said he will contribute a lot going forward.
Marc Cucurella described Militao as a player with a lot of personality who adds plenty to the dressing room. He called him a very cheerful presence. He was happy to have him back.
Having everyone available is the key, Cucurella added, because more players means more options.
What it means for the next fixtures
For anyone following Real Madrid's markets, the main point is squad depth. Goal said Militao's return gives manager Jose Mourinho another option as the schedule fills up.
Matches against RB Leipzig and Barcelona were flagged as important.
Militao is not expected to be thrown straight in at full fitness. Goal reported that he will build up match sharpness gradually in training at Valdebebas.
His place in the starting line-up for either game is unconfirmed. Bettors will want to check team news before kickoff rather than assume he starts.
The win went down well with supporters on social media. Fans on X praised the team's collective display and Mourinho's coaching.
Photo: goal.com (all rights reserved)