Real Madrid have suffered a major setback with defender Antonio Rüdiger ruled out for around three months after sustaining a muscle injury. The German international, who has been a cornerstone in Carlo Ancelotti’s backline, will be absent for a series of crucial fixtures in both domestic and European competitions.
During his recovery period, Rüdiger is set to miss La Liga clashes against Real Sociedad, Espanyol, Levante, Atlético Madrid, Villarreal, Getafe, Barcelona, Valencia, Rayo Vallecano, Elche, Girona, and Celta Vigo. In addition, he will be unavailable for Champions League ties with Marseille, Kairat Almaty, Juventus, and Olympiacos, while also missing a key showdown with Liverpool. His potential return for the highly anticipated match against Manchester City remains uncertain, depending on his rehabilitation progress.
Rüdiger’s absence leaves Real Madrid facing a defensive crisis at a decisive stage of the season. His leadership, physical dominance, and consistency have made him one of the most trusted figures in Ancelotti’s system since his move from Chelsea. Without him, the responsibility will fall on Éder Militão, Nacho Fernández, and David Alaba to hold the defensive line, though the trio will be stretched by the intensity of the upcoming schedule.
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The timing of the injury could not be worse for Madrid. The club is pushing to defend its La Liga crown while also aiming for another deep run in the Champions League. Losing Rüdiger for matches against Atlético, Juventus, Barcelona, and Liverpool means the team will be without one of its most reliable defenders in high-stakes encounters.
Medical staff at the club are expected to take a cautious approach to avoid aggravating the injury. While fans hope for a quick return, Madrid will not want to risk rushing him back, especially with the Champions League knockout rounds looming.
For now, the focus turns to the squad’s depth and adaptability. How Real Madrid cope during Rüdiger’s absence could ultimately define their season, both in Spain and on the European stage.
