Injuries have robbed Real Madrid of defensive stability – now they need a striker more than ever if they are to outscore Europe’s elite

Eder Militao knew something was wrong immediately. Real Madrid’s centre-back grimaced, pounded the ground, and yelled in pain after jamming his foot awkwardly into the San Mames turf. His knee popped, and a million social media doctors could tell this would be a long-term issue.

They were right. Militao is likely out for the season after tearing his ACL, Madrid’s best defender missing for a whole campaign. Just three days earlier, goalkeeper