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Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger has confirmed he recently had meniscus surgery.
He revealed he played through pain for the last seven months before finally undergoing the procedure.
The German has been one of Carlo Ancelotti’s most trusted players this season. He is Madrid’s best performer at the back.
David Alaba has struggled with fitness, while Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao have been out with long-term injuries. Rudiger has carried the defensive line for most of the campaign.
Young defender Raul Asencio has yet to reach the required level, which has left Rudiger with extra responsibility throughout the season.
The German was involved in Madrid’s Copa del Rey final defeat to Barcelona. He subsequently announced on social media that he had undergone surgery.
Rudiger out for the season, eyes Club World Cup return
According to Spanish outlet AS, Rudiger is expected to be out for six to eight weeks.
However, he hopes to return in time for the Club World Cup. Rudiger also expressed his desire to feature in the Nations League later this year.
The 32-year-old has a history of knee issues. He suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2016. He had surgery for another knee problem three years later.
Those previous injuries now seem to be affecting him once again. Earlier this season, he wore a large bandage on his left leg against Valladolid.
One week later, he had to be replaced against Espanyol due to muscle problems. Despite the discomfort, he continued to play through the pain.
Madrid remain in the La Liga title race but face an uphill task. With only a few games left to play, they trail rivals Barcelona by four points.
Rudiger’s absence is another setback for the team. Madrid will need to show strong character to end the season positively.
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