Official: Real Madrid defender out for two to three weeks with hamstring injury | OneFootball

Real Madrid have confirmed that Antonio Rudiger, one of the club’s key defenders, will be sidelined for two to three weeks due to a tear in his right hamstring that he suffered against Espanyol.

This injury has left the club with a significant defensive void, and the situation has raised concerns, especially with upcoming crucial matches.

The medical tests revealed that Rudiger has suffered a small tear in the femoral biceps of his right leg, which is a severe blow for the team.

A major blow to Real Madrid

This type of injury typically requires a few weeks for recovery, and even though the club is hopeful for a quick return, it seems unlikely that Rudiger will be ready for the highly anticipated match against Manchester City at the Etihad.

The return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu also looks uncertain for him, though the club is targeting that fixture as a potential comeback date.

Antonio Rudiger has suffered a hamstring injury. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“Following tests carried out on our player Antonio Rudiger by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with an injury to the femoral biceps of his right leg. Pending evolution,” read a report from Real Madrid.

The player himself is eager to return as soon as possible, but the severity of the injury makes it challenging to set any clear expectations.

Options for Ancelotti

With Rudiger out, manager Carlo Ancelotti faces a tough challenge as he navigates the upcoming matches without one of his top centre-backs. The situation is critical, especially with Real Madrid’s title ambitions and European fixtures ahead.

Ancelotti’s options are limited, but the most likely solution is to deploy Raul Asencio in the centre-back position alongside Aurelien Tchouameni.

Additionally, David Alaba is expected to gradually re-enter the starting XI, potentially filling in as a defensive partner in the coming weeks.

The absence of Rudiger is a significant setback for Real Madrid, as the team will need to adapt quickly without his defensive presence.