Real Madrid defender puts Copa Del Rey incident behind him by apologising to Ricardo De Burgos | OneFootball

According to MARCA, there is no longer any tension between Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger and referee Ricardo De Burgos.

It is to be noted that the pair shared a heated moment during last season’s Copa del Rey final when Rudiger was sent off for an outburst that involved throwing a piece of tape.

The incident left a bitter taste, and the German defender later received a lengthy ban in La Liga.

Rudiger finally returned to action in Real Madrid’s match against Oviedo, and destiny delivered a remarkable twist.

The official for the game happened to be Ricardo De Burgos, the very referee at the heart of that Copa del Rey controversy.

For many players, this might have reopened wounds, but Rudiger saw it as the perfect chance to put things right.

Apology brings closure for Rudiger

Antonio Rudiger apologies to the referee. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

After the final whistle, Rudiger approached the referee to offer a personal apology.

While he had already addressed the matter publicly on social media immediately after the final, the German defender wanted to go one step further.

Speaking directly to De Burgos allowed him to close the chapter with sincerity and respect.

According to the report, De Burgos welcomed the gesture warmly. The two had a calm and constructive conversation that ended on positive terms.

For Rudiger, this was a huge relief. It not only marked his official return to La Liga action but also allowed him to move past one of the lowest points in his career.

The reconciliation highlights Rudiger’s maturity and determination to learn from mistakes. By resolving the issue face-to-face, he showed the importance of accountability in football.

Now, with the matter behind him, the German centre-back can focus fully on the season ahead, where his defensive strength will once again be crucial for Real Madrid.