Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger is expected to be sidelined for up to eight weeks after undergoing knee surgery on Tuesday, dealing a double blow to both club and country ahead of a critical stretch of the season.
The Germany international picked up the injury during the Copa del Rey final on Saturday, where Real Madrid fell 3-2 to arch-rivals Barcelona in extra time. Tensions flared after Rudiger was substituted, and he was later shown a red card for throwing an object at the referee during heated sideline protests.
The 32-year-old centre-back now faces a potential suspension ranging from four to 12 matches as disciplinary proceedings begin. His actions could see him miss a significant chunk of La Liga fixtures, including the crucial El Clásico rematch scheduled for May 11 at the Olympic Stadium.
Despite the injury setback, Rudiger may recover in time to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer in the United States, set to kick off on June 14. Real Madrid, currently second in La Liga, trail leaders Barcelona by four points with five matches left in the title race.
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