Madrid´s Rudiger undergoes knee surgery after Copa del Rey final defeat

Real Madrid have confirmed that defender Antonio Rudiger has undergone knee surgery and is expected to miss the remainder of the season.

Rudiger was replaced by Endrick in extra-time of Madrid’s 3-2 defeat to rivals Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday after picking up an injury.

The German international sustained a meniscus tear in his left knee, though the club did not give a timeline for his recovery.

“Our player, Antonio Rudiger underwent successful surgery today for a partial tear in the external meniscus of his left leg,” Real said in a statement.

“Rudiger will begin recovery work shortly.”

Rudiger was one of three Madrid players sent off during Los Blancos’ defeat to Hansi Flick’s team following a refereeing decision against Kylian Mbappe late on.

The 32-year-old was seen throwing an object, reportedly an ice cube, at referee Ricardo Burgos moments after Jules Kounde had scored the winning goal.

Rudiger, who has since apologised for his behaviour, could be suspended for between four and 12 matches, according to reports.

Madrid, who are four points behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona with five games of the season remaining, welcome Celta Vigo to the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday.

Rüdiger medical report.

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) April 29, 2025