Rudiger sidelined after knee surgery amid season-long ban speculations

Vishal Bhawani

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Rudiger sidelined after knee surgery amid season-long ban speculations image

Antonio Rudiger is expected to not put on the white shirt again this season.

The Real Madrid defender has undergone surgery on his right knee after tearing the outer part of his meniscus during the Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona.

While the club confirmed the operation was a success, the German international is expected to miss the remainder of the campaign.

But the injury isn’t the only thing keeping him off the pitch.

The center back is also waiting on possible punishment from the Spanish FA for his heated outburst during the Copa final.

Rudiger, who had already been substituted due to injury, reportedly threw an object toward the referee in protest over a late foul call. The red card came not while playing, but from the bench — adding drama to what was already a chaotic ending.

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Real Madrid left short at the back after Rudiger surgery

Real Madrid now face a tight finish to the season without one of their most dependable defenders. With Eder Militao already sidelined and David Alaba still finding his feet, Rudiger’s absence leaves Carlo Ancelotti with a selection headache.

Midfielders like Aurelien Tchouameni might once again be asked to fill defensive roles — not ideal when every point could swing the La Liga title race.

As for the potential suspension, the outlook isn’t promising. If the disciplinary panel hits Rudiger with a 4 to 12-match ban under section 101 of the federation’s code, it could stretch into next season.

That’s a lot of bench-warming for a man more used to blocking than apologizing.

Still, Rudiger owned up to his actions, posting: “There's definitely no excuse for my behavior last night... Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I have disappointed.”

Between a bad knee and worse timing, Rudiger’s season might end with more headlines than highlights.

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Vishal Bhawani

Vishal Bhawani is a sub-editor for the Affiliate Content team and a writer and sub-editor for the Football Wires team at The Sporting News. Based in Indore, India, he holds a Diploma in Operations and Management from Maharashtra University.

Before joining TSN in May 2024, Vishal contributed to Football Express and Six Sports and ran his own blog, Anfield Home, as a passionate Liverpool fan. An avid traveler, he follows multiple sports, including cricket, soccer, and tennis.