By Frank Ulom
MADRID (CONVERSEER) – Real Madrid are facing a significant defensive crisis after Antonio Rüdiger was ruled out for up to two-and-a-half months with a thigh injury.
The German international sustained the injury in training this week, with medical tests confirming damage to the rectus femoris muscle in his left leg. The club released a statement on Friday saying they were “awaiting further development” on his recovery, but Sky Sports Germany has reported that the former Chelsea centre-back will not return until December.
If confirmed, the 31-year-old will miss Real’s Champions League group-stage matches against Juventus and Liverpool in October, as well as the season’s first El Clásico against Barcelona on 26 October.
Rüdiger has endured an injury-troubled spell in recent months, and his latest setback leaves manager Xabi Alonso short of options at the back. New signing Dean Huijsen has partnered Eder Militão so far this season, while David Alaba and academy graduate Raúl Asencio are also available, though both have fitness concerns of their own.
Real have nevertheless enjoyed a perfect start under Alonso, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti in the summer. The Spanish coach has overseen four consecutive La Liga victories, defeating Osasuna, Real Oviedo, Mallorca and Real Sociedad.
The loss of Rüdiger, one of the team’s most experienced defenders, could test Alonso’s squad depth as the season intensifies.
