Is Antonio Rudiger's Surgery a Setback for Real Madrid's Club World Cup Hopes?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rudiger's surgery is a significant blow for Real Madrid.
- He is expected to miss the FIFA Club World Cup.
- Rudiger has had ongoing issues with his left knee.
- The club is likely to prioritize defensive reinforcements this summer.
- Real Madrid's title hopes are dwindling with the season's end approaching.
Madrid, April 29 (NationPress) Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger has been sidelined for the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery on Tuesday for a partial tear of the external meniscus in his left knee. This unfortunate event is likely to keep him from participating in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Throughout the 2024/25 season, Rudiger has faced challenges with his left knee, which ultimately led to his inability to play beyond the 111th minute during the Copa Del Rey final against FC Barcelona. His frustration peaked when he received a red card for throwing an object at referee De Burgos Bengoetxea.
The club's official statement read, "Our player Antonio Rudiger underwent successful surgery today for a partial tear of the external meniscus in his left leg. The operation was performed by Dr. Manuel Leyes under the supervision of Real Madrid Medical Services. Rudiger will begin recovery soon."
During Real's 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final, Rudiger and his teammates expressed their outrage over a foul called against Kylian Mbappe just before the match concluded. His anger resulted in a red card, along with Vazquez and Bellingham, as they protested the decision. After being sent off, Rudiger had to be restrained by his teammates to prevent him from confronting the match official.
In his post-match report to the Spanish Football Federation, referee Bengoetxea noted that Rudiger had thrown 'an object which missed me,' while Bellingham received a red card for his 'aggressive attitude' towards officials after the final whistle.
Rudiger's injury poses a significant concern for Real Madrid, who have struggled with defensive depth this season. Reports suggest that signing central defenders is a top priority for Los Blancos this summer.
With the season nearing its end, Madrid’s only title hope rests in narrowing the four-point gap between themselves and Barcelona. The final El Clasico of the season is scheduled for May 11 at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.