Rudiger still faces long-term suspension for his aggressive actions towards a referee in the Copa del Rey final
Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger has undergone successful surgery in his left knee, but it will sideline him for six to eight weeks, effectively ruling him out for the remainder of the 2024/25 season.
The 32-year-old German international had been managing the injury for some time, which had affected his performances. On Sunday against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final in Seville, Rudiger was subbed off in the 109th minute due to a problem with his leg.
Real Madrid has published a statement on Rudiger’s surgery, saying: “Our player Antonio Rüdiger underwent successful surgery today for a partial tear of the external meniscus in his left leg.
“The operation was performed by Dr. Manuel Leyes under the supervision of the Real Madrid Medical Services. Rudiger will begin recovery soon.”
The player still faces a potential long-term suspension following his actions in Seville. In the 122nd minute, while on the bench, the German international was shown a red card for throwing an ice pack towards referee Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea. He then had to be restrained by his teammates and Madrid coaching staff after making an aggressive advance towards the match official.
The former Chelsea defender has publicly apologised for his conduct, but that has not prevented the incident from sparking serious debate within the football community, with many seeing it as a symbol of the significant abuse directed towards match officials.
An online petition signed by thousands of Germans called for Rudiger to be expelled from the national team due to his “disgraceful” actions.
