Real Madrid Faces Defensive Crisis Following Rüdiger Injury

Antonio Rüdiger is sidelined with a leg muscle injury, leaving Real Madrid short on experienced defenders ahead of key matches in La Liga and the Champions League.

Antonio Rüdiger sustained a right leg muscle injury during Real Madrid's 1-0 loss to Espanyol on Saturday and is expected to be out for two to three weeks.
The injury leaves Real Madrid with only one fully fit senior center back, David Alaba, who is still regaining form following a long-term ACL injury.
Real Madrid is already without Éder Militão for the season due to an ACL tear, while Dani Carvajal is another defensive absentee.
The injury threatens to disrupt Real Madrid's preparations for their Champions League playoff first leg against Manchester City on February 11.
With the transfer window closing on February 3, Real Madrid may consider a last-minute defensive signing to address their depleted backline.