A torn hamstring could rule Eder Militao out for up to four months, leaving Madrid short at the back ahead of their clash with Manchester City.

The Brazilian centre-back pulled up injured during the 2-0 La Liga defeat by Celta Vigo on Sunday, which left his team four points behind leaders Barcelona.

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“He has been diagnosed with a rupture of the biceps femoris tendon in the left leg, specifically affecting the proximal tendon,” said Madrid in a statement.

Spanish reports said Militao is set to miss between three and four months, continuing his injury-hit spell at the club since joining from Porto in 2019.

The 27-year-old has suffered two severe knee injuries during his time at Madrid, playing fewer than 20 times in each of the past two seasons.

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Madrid have several other defenders out injured, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dani Carvajal and Dean Huijsen.

They host Man City and superstar striker Erling Haaland on Wednesday, as they bid to improve on a run of two wins in their last seven games across all competitions.

– AFP

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