AI Chooses the Perfect Replacement for Militao at Real Madrid
The club has turned to a company that uses artificial intelligence for advanced scouting to find the ideal replacement for the Brazilian center-back.
Éder Militao's recent injury has dealt a blow to Real Madrid's defense, leaving the squad with limited options. With only Rüdiger, Vallejo, and young Castilla player Asencio available, the club faces the challenge of finding a replacement who can provide both stability and match Militao’s quality. To address this, Real Madrid has turned to Olocip, a company specializing in advanced AI-powered scouting, to identify the ideal candidate.
Olocip’s technology evaluates each player’s performance based on variables such as league, team, coach, and position, tailoring their assessment to Real Madrid's specific requirements. This AI-based tool provides the club with a precise and detailed view of how each potential recruit might fit into the team’s demanding structure.
Top Candidates: Boscagli and Laporte
Olocip’s AI ranks Olivier Boscagli and Aymeric Laporte as the top choices to cover Militao’s absence. Boscagli, currently with PSV Eindhoven, leads the list due to his strengths in ball distribution and defensive contribution, ranking in the 98th percentile among central defenders when assessed within Real Madrid's context. According to Olocip’s model, Boscagli would bring an impact of 0.33 goals per 90 minutes—matching Militao's pre-injury average.
Laporte, now playing in the Saudi league, emerges as another attractive option. With an impact rating of 0.32 goals per game, Laporte would contribute to Real Madrid’s defense by preventing an additional goal every 290 minutes. His experience and skills in play construction make him a reliable, versatile choice.
Two More Options: Jonathan Tah and Ryan Flamingo
In addition to Boscagli and Laporte, AI suggests two further names: Jonathan Tah from Bayer Leverkusen and PSV Eindhoven’s Ryan Flamingo. Tah is a pivotal figure in Leverkusen’s defense under Xabi Alonso and excels in physical strength and aerial ability, proving to be solid in ball recovery and second plays. With his contract ending in June, Tah could present a smart market opportunity.
Ryan Flamingo, a young but promising center-back, has shown defensive instincts and game-reading skills that might suit Real Madrid well. Although his contract with PSV runs until 2029, Flamingo has demonstrated adaptability and ball distribution abilities that could prove valuable in coming seasons, despite the risks of his youth.
Ancelotti’s Challenge to Integrate a New Center-Back
With AI-backed options laid out, Real Madrid can make an informed and strategic decision in the upcoming transfer window. AI assists in identifying the ideal profile to fill Militao’s void, potentially giving Carlo Ancelotti a key defensive reinforcement for a season packed with challenges.