Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger is set for an extended spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on his left knee, following a turbulent weekend that saw him sent off in the Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona.
The German centre-back had to be substituted during extra time of Madrid’s 3-2 defeat in Seville and was later shown a red card for throwing an object at the referee in protest from the sidelines.
Spanish media reports suggest Rüdiger will be out for six to eight weeks as he recovers from a torn outer meniscus in his left knee—a procedure that was confirmed by Real Madrid in a statement on Tuesday. However, the club did not specify the exact recovery timeline.
The 32-year-old’s outburst is expected to result in a suspension ranging from four to 12 matches, pending disciplinary review. This could see him miss crucial games for both club and potentially country.
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Despite the setback, there is cautious optimism that Rüdiger could return in time for the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off in the United States on June 14. His presence would be a welcome boost for Los Blancos as they aim to cap off their season with silverware on the global stage.
Currently sitting second in La Liga, Real Madrid trail leaders Barcelona by four points with just five matches left. The much-anticipated El Clásico on May 11 at the Olympic Stadium could be decisive in the title race—though it now appears Rüdiger will not feature in that showdown.
The injury and disciplinary drama mark a disappointing turn in what has otherwise been a solid season for the former Chelsea defender, who has become a mainstay in Madrid’s backline.
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