Real Madrid have been dealt a double injury blow with Antonio Rudiger and Ferland Mendy both sidelined ahead of a crucial run-in to the La Liga title race and the Club World Cup.
Spanish media report that Rudiger will miss six to eight weeks as he recovers from an injury sustained during Madrid’s 3-2 extra-time defeat to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final. The 32-year-old was also sent off after protesting aggressively from the sidelines and will serve the final match of his suspension at the start of next season.
Despite the setback, Rudiger may still return in time for the Club World Cup, which begins on June 14 in the United States.
Meanwhile, Ferland Mendy is set to miss the tournament after suffering a right quadriceps rupture, confirmed by the club on Tuesday. The French full-back was making his first appearance in six weeks when he was forced off early in the final.
Real Madrid, currently second in La Liga, trail leaders Barcelona by four points with five games remaining, including a key clash at the Olympic Stadium on May 11. Already without Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao through long-term injuries, Madrid’s defensive woes continue to mount at a critical stage of the season.
