Militão’s Unusual Childhood: From Flying Kites to Becoming Madrid’s Most Expensive Defender
Today, many consider Éder Militão one of the best centre-backs in the world. Since arriving from FC Porto, the Brazilian has built an outstanding career at Real Madrid, steadily developing into a key pillar of the team. However, his journey has not been without setbacks, as two serious knee injuries have tested his resilience.
What makes his story even more remarkable is that, as a child, Militão didn’t even like football. Instead of dreaming about stadiums and trophies, he preferred riding his bicycle and flying kites.
“I wasn’t a big football fan,” the defender admitted in an interview years ago.
His Father Sparked the Passion
Militão’s love for the game was nurtured by his father, Valdo Militão, a former professional footballer who played for Corinthians and other Brazilian clubs. It was Valdo who introduced young Éder to the beauty of the sport—and, judging by the outcome, he made the right call.
At the age of 12, Valdo enrolled him in Projeto Camisa 10, run by his friend Agnello Souza. Recognising his son’s natural speed and passing ability, Valdo later took him to trials at São Paulo FC. Militão was accepted on his third attempt, marking the true beginning of his professional journey.
From Midfielder to Centre-Back
Interestingly, Militão did not start out as a defender. He initially played as a central midfielder, and his first coach, Geraldo, later deployed him as an attacking midfielder because of his powerful shot.
Eventually, he transitioned to centre-back—a move he did not welcome at first. Militão preferred being on the ball rather than defending. Once again, his father played a decisive role, convincing him that his speed and aerial strength made him perfectly suited to the position.
Madrid’s Most Expensive Defender
Militão spent just one season at Porto, but his performances were so impressive that Real Madrid decided to invest €50 million to sign him in the summer of 2019. That fee made him the most expensive defender in the club’s history at the time.
From a boy who once cared little for football to one of the world’s elite defenders, Militão’s journey is proof that passion can grow—and sometimes greatness begins where you least expect it.
