Real Madrid has received one of the worst possible pieces of news at the start of this season. Antonio Rüdiger, a key piece in the white defense, has suffered a serious injury during the training session prior to the match against Real Sociedad. In the final moments of the session, the German center-back was forced to leave the field and was quickly given medical tests.
The diagnosis: injury to the rectus femoris
After undergoing medical tests, Real Madrid has confirmed the extent of the injury. Rüdiger has suffered an injury to the rectus femoris in his left leg, a condition that will force him to be out for a total of two to three months. This long absence is a major setback for Xabi Alonso, who counted on the German as one of its pillars in the back line.
The matches Antonio Rüdiger will miss
Real Madrid's schedule is demanding and Rüdiger's absence will leave a gap that's hard to fill. The center-back will miss important matches in LaLiga, the Champions League, and international competitions. Specifically, he will be absent against:
- Real Sociedad
- Olympique de Marsella
- Espanyol
- Levante
- Atlético de Madrid
- Kairat Almaty
- Villarreal
- Getafe
- Juventus
- Barcelona
- Valencia
- Liverpool
- Rayo Vallecano
- Elche
- Olympiacos
- Girona
This devastating list highlights the magnitude of the problem for the white team.
Possible return date
If everything progresses as expected, the German center-back could return against Celta or Manchester City, matches scheduled for late November and early December. However, the club doesn't want to rush and will prioritize Rüdiger's return at 100% of his physical condition.
A blow to Xabi Alonso's defense
Rüdiger's absence forces Xabi Alonso to reorganize his defense. With Militao, Asencio, and Alaba as the main alternatives, the rotation will be reduced. In addition, the coach will have to manage the minutes of the other defenders to avoid overloads.
He not only provides defensive security but also character, leadership, and an extra dose of aggressiveness that has often proved decisive in the most difficult matches. His absence leaves an emotional and footballing void that the locker room will have to fill collectively.
An injury that comes at the worst moment
Antonio Rüdiger's injury comes just as the most decisive matches of the season were approaching. The Clásico against FC Barcelona, the visit to Anfield against Liverpool, and high-stakes Champions League clashes will undoubtedly be affected by this absence.
Real Madrid loses one of its most reliable warriors, now the responsibility will fall on the rest of the squad. The challenge is enormous: to keep the competitive level without Rüdiger over the coming months.