Seven young stars that will impress in La Liga this season
By Steve Zavala
Eder Militao (21) – Centre-back, Real Madrid
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez made his intentions clear with the transfer signing of Eder Militao that he has an eye on the future.
At age 33, Sergio Ramos may not have much left in the tank to continue performing at a world class level. He has not shown much to indicate a vast decline in performance but with defenders, it is almost inevitable as they approach their mid-30s. The transfer of Militao was made as an insurance purchase for depth this season but down the line, the Brazilian is projected to take over the reign and be Ramos’ successor.
As is the case with Todibo, Militao is a talent for the future. The former Porto defender has already shown that he has the ability to live up to expectations with 104 first-team appearances in his career and a Primeira Liga Team of the Year selection for the 2018-2019 campaign. He is an engine that never stops operating from his line, whether it is in his defensive work or as a passer distributing possession upfield.
Unlike the Frenchman, Militao is not a low risk, high reward project.
With a transfer fee of €50M, Real Madrid are hopeful that Militao will display his true potential as a prominent defender from the moment he makes his debut for the club. But in the case that it does not pan out, Militao is also able to showcase his talent as a fullback or defensive midfielder.