Injury Concerns for Real Madrid as Antonio Rudiger Suffers Muscle Tear

Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger is a major doubt for the Champions League clash with Manchester City after suffering a muscle tear in his right leg during the 1-0 defeat to Espanyol.

Real Madrid centre-half Antonio Rudiger is facing a serious risk of missing the highly anticipated Champions League clash with Manchester City due to injury. The 31-year-old German international suffered a right thigh injury during Real's 1-0 La Liga defeat to Espanyol on Saturday, forcing him to limp off the field in the first half.

The extent of Rudiger's injury was revealed by Real Madrid's medical service, which stated, “Following tests carried out by Real Madrid's medical service Antonio Rudiger has been diagnosed with a muscle tear in his right leg.” This diagnosis has sparked concerns about Rudiger's availability for the upcoming Champions League tie against Manchester City.

Rüdiger medical report.

— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) February 2, 2025

According to Spanish media reports, Rudiger is expected to be sidelined for a minimum of two weeks, which would rule him out of next week's La Liga game against Atletico Madrid. More significantly, it would also likely keep him out of the first leg of Real's Champions League play-off with Manchester City on February 11th.

If confirmed, Antonio Rudiger's absence will deal a significant blow to Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, who is already navigating the season-long absences of key defenders Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao. The loss of Rudiger would further test Ancelotti's defensive resources, particularly ahead of the crucial Champions League tie against Manchester City.

The two European giants are set to clash in the Champions League, with Pep Guardiola's City hosting Real in the first leg. The highly anticipated match will take place at the Etihad Stadium, followed by the return leg in Madrid on February 19th.