Real Madrid are reportedly set to be without defender Antonio Rudiger for two-and-a-half months in a huge blow for the Spanish giants. Xabi Alonso’s side confirmed on Friday that the Germany international was set for a spell on the sidelines with a thigh injury suffered in training. Rudiger has been plagued by a number of fitness issues in what has been a difficult past year for the centre-back.
Report: Rudiger set for two-and-a-half months out
While Real are yet to officially confirm the length of the injury, are reporting that Rudiger is set to be out until December. Should that be the case, the former Chelsea man would miss Real's Champions League clashes against Juventus and Liverpool on October 22 and November 4 respectively, as well as El Clasico against Barcelona on October 26.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesHow Real announced Rudiger's injury on Friday
In a statement on Real's official website, the club announced on Friday: "Following tests conducted on Toni Rudiger by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with an injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his left leg. Awaiting further development."
Why Rudiger's injury leaves Alonso with depleted options
Rudiger's absence is set to leave Real manager Alonso sweating on the fitness of his remaining defensive options. The Santiago Bernabeu club have so far fielded a centre-back pairing of new signing Dean Huijsen and Eder Militao, who himself has struggled with injuries in the past. Real also have Raul Asencio and the injury-prone David Alaba to call upon.
Getty Images SportReal's electric start to 2025-26 under Alonso
Real have made a blistering start to the 2025-26 season under Alonso. The Spaniard, who succeeded Carlo Ancelotti in the Bernabeu hot seat in the summer, has guided his side to three wins from as many La Liga fixtures so far this term, defeating Osasuna, Real Oviedo and Mallorca.
