Real Madrid suffered an unexpected setback in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atletico Madrid, and there is still a big doubt whether Rudiger can participate in this crucial game.
According to recent revelations from Miguel Ángel Diaz, the German defender is experiencing discomfort in his knee, which has put his participation in the game in doubt.
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The timing couldn’t be worse for Xavi Alonso’s side. Real Madrid completed its final training session in Jeddah on Wednesday, with the only high-profile player confirmed to be absent ahead of Rudiger’s latest news being Kylian Mbappe.
The French striker did not travel with the team after spraining his left knee and is still undergoing treatment in Madrid.
What now?
Now Rudiger’s situation has added a new layer of worry.
If the German centre-back fails to recover in time, then everything points to Dean Huyson and Raul Asensio forming a central defensive partnership against Atletico Madrid.
Although both young players are rated highly within the club, putting them into the Super Cup semi-finals against physically demanding opponents is a huge risk.
Antonio Rudiger has suffered a new setback. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
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Real Madrid’s defense is already stretched thin. Eder Militao is still recovering from a long-term injury, while Trent Alexander-Arnold is also unavailable.
In this case, losing Rudiger would be another blow to a squad already plagued by injuries, as his importance to the Real Madrid squad cannot be overstated.
The Germany international is one of the few regulars in a defense beset by fitness issues, starting seven of the club’s last eight games.
His leadership, physicality and performance in big games have made him a cornerstone of the defense this season.
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In addition to his individual abilities, Rudiger’s potential absence will also seriously affect Madrid’s defensive depth.
Atletico Madrid are renowned for their intensity, aerial threat and ability to punish even the smallest defensive mistakes.
Facing them without one of the team’s most reliable defenders will force Real to adapt quickly, both tactically and mentally.
