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Real Madrid will be without key defender Antonio Rüdiger for nearly two months. The German international had successful surgery for a partial rupture in the external meniscus of his left leg.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Antonio Rüdiger, one of Real Madrid’s most important defenders this season, had surgery after an injury forced him off the pitch. The club confirmed the operation was successful, but Rüdiger will be out for about eight weeks. This is a big setback. He has played nearly every minute for Madrid this year, standing out amid a defensive injury crisis. Now, the team has very limited options at center-back, with Éder Militão and Dani Carvajal also having fitness issues this season.
REAL MADRID’S SEASON SO FAR
Rüdiger’s injury comes at a tough time for Real Madrid. The team 7 points from the top of La Liga with a narrow lead over their closest rivals, but the title race is tight. Rüdiger has played in almost every game, providing stability to a backline dealing with frequent injuries. He has been a vocal leader on the pitch, and his performances have been important in both domestic and European matches.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR MADRID AND RÜDIGER?
Real Madrid faces key matches in the coming weeks, including several big league games. Their next game is against Valencia, who are mid-table, but Madrid must be careful as the title race is still open. With Rüdiger out, head coach Carlo Ancelotti will need to rely on less experienced players like Raúl Asencio or use midfielders like Aurélien Tchouaméni in defense. The team hopes to keep their lead at the top until their defensive leader returns for the final stretch of the season.
