Overview

• Antonio Rüdiger underwent successful surgery for a partial meniscus tear after playing through severe knee pain for seven months.
• The Spanish Football Federation handed Rüdiger a six-match ban for throwing an object at the referee during Real Madrid's Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona.
• Rüdiger issued a public apology for his behavior, stating there was no excuse for his actions and expressing regret for disappointing fans and officials.
• The recovery timeline for Rüdiger’s surgery is estimated at six to eight weeks, potentially sidelining him for the rest of the season and jeopardizing his availability for the Nations League and Club World Cup.
• Real Madrid's defensive challenges deepen as Rüdiger joins other injured players, including Ferland Mendy and David Alaba, in a critical phase of their LaLiga campaign.