Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger will sit out the remainder of the 2024/25 campaign after undergoing surgery to address a knee issue that has plagued him for much of the season.
The 32-year-old Germany international had been playing through the pain, but recent developments have seen the player and club opt for drastic measures.
The intervention was to repair a partial rupture of the external meniscus of Rüdiger’s left knee. The surgery was successfully performed by Dr. Manuel Leyes, an official statement from Real Madrid said, under the monitoring of the club’s medical team.
“Our player Antonio Rüdiger underwent successful surgery today for a partial tear of the external meniscus in his left leg,” the statement read. “The operation was performed by Dr. Manuel Leyes under the supervision of the Real Madrid Medical Services. Rüdiger will begin recovery in the near future.”
Rüdiger’s disciplinary situation also contributed to the summons to play at this point in the season.
The centre-back was facing a potential 4-12 match ban after he was red-carded in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
As such a ban would have effectively ruled him out of the La Liga matches that were left, Rüdiger and the club both felt it was the right time to get the underlying knee problem resolved.
Football journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that the rehabilitation process will last nearly two months. This stretch of time will cause Rüdiger to not only miss the rest of the current La Liga season but is also probable to be unfit for the FIFA Club World Cup, which will be held this summer.
Barring any complications, he is expected to be ready for the start of the 2025/26 season.
Rüdiger’s absence will be a significant blow for Real Madrid, who have relied heavily on the experienced defender throughout the season.
Known for his physical presence, leadership, and tactical awareness, Rüdiger has been a key figure in Carlo Ancelotti’s backline.
His absence will now place additional responsibility on other defenders such as Éder Militão, David Alaba, and Nacho Fernandez.
Despite the setback, there is good news on Rüdiger’s road to recovery. The surgery went well, and under the full attention of the club’s medical team, the German should return stronger. His work ethic and tenacity have never been in doubt, and fans will be eager to see him back in action next season.
As he begins his rehabilitation process, the football fraternity has rallied behind Rüdiger, wishing him well and a speedy recovery.
Real Madrid will now focus on finishing the season strongly without one of their defensive stalwarts, while Rüdiger focuses on recovering and regaining full fitness ahead of the new season.
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