Overview

• Antonio Rüdiger was ejected during the Copa del Rey final for throwing an object at the referee and insulting him, actions he later apologized for on social media.
• DFB Sport Director Rudi Völler sharply criticized Rüdiger’s behavior but confirmed the defender will remain in the national team for the Nations League Final Four in June.
• Spanish competition authorities are expected to impose a suspension of 4 to 12 matches under their regulations for referee-directed misconduct.
• Former players Lothar Matthäus and Dietmar Hamann have called for Rüdiger’s suspension from the national team, while Felix Kroos defended him, urging understanding for mistakes.
• Rüdiger’s prior disciplinary issues, including a recent UEFA sanction for a provocative gesture, have intensified scrutiny of his conduct and accountability as a national team representative.