Real Madrid will be without defender Antonio Rudiger for the rest of the season after the club confirmed on Tuesday that the Germany international has had an operation on a knee injury that he suffered during Madrid's 3-2 defeat to FC Barcelona in Saturday's Copa del Rey final.
Antonio Rudiger (L) of Real Madrid vies with Cyle Larin (bottom) of RCD Mallorca during the La Liga football match between Real Madrid and RCD Mallorca in Madrid, Spain, Jan. 3, 2024. (Photo by Gustavo Valiente/Xinhua)
"Antonio Rudiger underwent surgery today for a tear in the outer meniscus of his left knee. The operation was performed by Dr Manuel Leyes under the supervision of Real Madrid's medical services. Rudiger will begin his recovery process shortly," informed the club on its official website.
The operation means Rudiger will be out of action for between six weeks and two months, meaning he will miss the rest of Spain's domestic season, but could be able to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup, which begins in mid-June.
The club has taken the decision to operate on Rudiger as the defender waits to see the length of the ban he will receive from the Spanish Football Federation for his actions in the closing moments of the Cup final.
Rudiger was shown a red card for his protests at a late decision by referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea while in the dugout after being substituted because of his injury.
He then threw a bag of ice at the referee which narrowly missed him, and had to be restrained by team-mates and club staff as he tried to get onto the pitch. Rudiger's actions mean he is expected to receive a ban of at least four games, but probably considerably more, meaning he would not be able to play again this season anyway.
Jude Bellingham could also face a sanction for his post-game behavior, while Lucas Vazquez was also sent off for late protests.
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