Real Madrid’s defensive stalwart Antonio Rüdiger faces an extended spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on a meniscus injury, the club confirmed on Tuesday. To compound matters, the German international has also received a six-match suspension from the Spanish FA (RFEF) following his red card during Real’s Copa del Rey final defeat to Barcelona.
The timing of the double blow could not be worse for Los Blancos, who are still fighting to close the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona with five league games remaining. Rüdiger’s absence now poses a major challenge for Carlo Ancelotti as he juggles injuries and suspensions during the crucial final stretch of the season.
Successful Knee Operation Ends Season for Rüdiger
In an official statement, Real Madrid announced that Rüdiger had undergone successful surgery to repair a partial tear in the external meniscus of his left knee.
“Our player Antonio Rüdiger underwent successful surgery today for a partial tear in the external meniscus of his left leg,” the club said. “Rüdiger will begin recovery work shortly.”
Rüdiger, 32, had reportedly been managing knee pain for several months and finally decided to go under the knife after consultation with the club’s medical staff. The injury had been limiting his mobility and performance, though he had continued to play through discomfort.
On social media, the former Chelsea defender addressed fans directly, revealing that he had been playing through severe pain for over seven months.
“I want to be able to play again as soon as possible, especially with big tournaments like the Nations League and the Club World Cup ahead,” he posted on X.
“But for now, I have to go week by week. I’ll do everything I can to make it happen.”
Rüdiger’s surgery all but rules him out for the remainder of the 2024/25 season. His availability for Germany in the upcoming UEFA Nations League is now uncertain.
After I have played more than seven month with severe pain, it was unfortunately unavoidable that I had to undergo a meniscus surgery. Now I’m finally pain-free again, and the surgery was a success. Thanks to the medical team. I want to be able to play again as soon as… pic.twitter.com/HhrFD3Io1u
— Antonio Rüdiger (@ToniRuediger) April 29, 2025
Six-Match Ban for Heated Reaction in Cup Final
Just hours after Real Madrid confirmed the surgery, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced a six-match ban for Rüdiger following his red card incident during Saturday’s Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona.
Rüdiger was sent off in extra time after angrily confronting the referee over a controversial foul call involving Kylian Mbappé, moments before Jules Koundé scored Barca’s dramatic winner.
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Though Rüdiger apologized after the match, the RFEF handed down the six-match suspension citing violent conduct and dissent.
He wasn’t the only Real player punished. Lucas Vázquez, who also saw red in the fiery final minutes, received a two-match suspension, while Jude Bellingham escaped further punishment after being shown a red card post-match for protesting.
Key Blow to Real Madrid’s Title Hopes
Rüdiger’s absence will be felt deeply by Ancelotti and his squad. The German defender has been one of Real’s most consistent performers throughout the campaign, forming a strong defensive partnership with Éder Militão and covering in multiple positions due to frequent injuries at the back.
Now, with Real Madrid four points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race, the loss of Rüdiger for the final five league matches — and potentially the early stages of the Club World Cup or Nations League — could prove significant.
Real Madrid host Celta Vigo on Sunday at the Santiago Bernabéu, and Ancelotti will now be forced to reshuffle his backline. Nacho, Fran García, and even Aurélien Tchouaméni may be called upon to fill in defensively as depth continues to thin.
Frustration Boils Over After Copa Defeat
The Copa del Rey final loss to arch-rivals Barcelona was already painful for Madrid fans, but the aftermath has only added salt to the wounds.
Real looked poised to take the game to penalties until the late goal from Koundé turned the tide. The controversial refereeing decisions, especially the foul on Mbappé, sparked outrage among Madrid players, with emotions boiling over.
Rüdiger’s aggressive reaction was visibly uncharacteristic and born out of frustration, a rare lapse from one of Europe’s most experienced defenders. However, the Spanish FA took a firm stance, enforcing a six-game suspension to send a message.
What Lies Ahead
Real Madrid’s focus now shifts fully to La Liga, with five finals remaining if they hope to leapfrog Barcelona and reclaim the title. However, the challenge has become harder without Rüdiger, both from a tactical and leadership standpoint.
Meanwhile, the German defender begins his recovery journey, hoping to regain fitness in time for international duty. His injury adds to the growing concern over player load and fixture congestion, especially in a season where international and club calendars are tightly packed.
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