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New Delhi: Real Madrid has suffered a major defensive blow as centre-back Antonio Rudiger has got injured. The defender has injured a muscle in his left leg and as per the initial reports suggesting he could be sidelined for up to 12 weeks. The 32-year-old German sustained the injury during a training session on Friday and further scans and tests are expected in the coming days to determine the full extent of the problem.
Rudiger has made just one La Liga appearance this season due to previous fitness issues and now faces a challenging recovery period. The veteran had a tough season last year as well but still managed to make 55 appearances across competitions for Los Blancos, showing his importance to the team's defensive setup.
Real Madrid confirmed that scans revealed an injury to Rudiger’s rectus femoris muscle in his left leg. While the club has not provided an official timeline for his return, multiple reports from AS have described the injury as “serious,” raising concerns about the team’s defensive depth as the season progresses.
The German international’s absence comes at a crucial time. Madrid is set to face Real Sociedad in La Liga this Saturday and will kick off its Champions League campaign at home against Marseille on Tuesday. With Rudiger out, head coach Xabi Alonso will need to rely on the squad’s other options in defence to maintain stability.
Real Madrid has already added reinforcements to its backline this summer, signing 20-year-old Netherlands-born Spanish centre-back Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth. The young defender may now see increased responsibilities in Rudiger’s absence, giving Alonso some flexibility to rotate and cover for the experienced German.
There are also reports that Madrid could look to further strengthen their defence by targeting Liverpool’s France international Ibrahima Konate, possibly at the end of the season. The club’s proactive approach suggests that they are keen to avoid long-term disruption in the heart of defence, especially with European and domestic campaigns demanding consistency.
Rudiger's injury makes things more difficult for Real Madrid as they are already dealing with suspensions and rotation in the first few weeks of the season. In addition to weakening the defensive line, losing a center-back with Rudiger's level of experience puts more pressure on the side to maintain the top spot in the standings. His absence will add more responsibility on the team's younger defenders to perform well in crucial games.
With all eyes set on Real Madrid's next games without Rudiger. It will be crucial how Xabi Alonso will plan the line up without one of its most dependable defensive players. If the team wants to keep its competitive edge in both La Liga and the Champions League this season, his fast recovery will be essential.
