After scandal against Barca: Rüdiger has to undergo surgery and will probably miss the Nations League final tournament
Shortly after the scandal in the Spanish Cup final, there's more bad news for Antonio Rüdiger. The defender will have to undergo surgery and will therefore likely miss the national team.
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann will likely have to plan for the Nations League final tournament without defensive leader Antonio Rüdiger. The 32-year-old from Real Madrid suffered a partial tear of the lateral meniscus in his left leg and has already undergone successful surgery, his club announced. Spanish media predict a forced layoff of at least six to eight weeks.
The German national team will face Portugal in the Nations League semifinals in Munich on June 4. Despite Rüdiger's violent outburst in the Spanish Cup final and the subsequent debate about harsh sanctions, DFB sporting director Rudi Völler indicated on Monday that the national team continues to rely on the defender.
Shortly before the end of extra time in the 2-3 final against FC Barcelona, Rüdiger verbally abused the referee and threw an object at him. The defender, who had already been substituted a few minutes earlier, received a red card. He faces a lengthy ban in Spain.
Rüdiger was unable to finish the final due to his injury. Despite a suspension, he is now out of the final leg of the Spanish title race and the next clash with league leaders FC Barcelona on May 11. It remains to be seen whether Rüdiger will be fit and available for the Club World Cup in the USA in June and July.
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