Antonio Rüdiger Ruled Out: Misses Derby and Manchester City Clash – Real Madrid Confirms Injury Layoff

Real Madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger has been officially ruled out of action due to a hamstring injury sustained during the recent match against RCD Espanyol. The German center-back was forced to leave the field just 15 minutes into the first half, and medical tests have now confirmed the extent of his injury, which could sideline him for approximately 20 days.

“Following medical tests conducted on our player Antonio Rüdiger by Real Madrid’s Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury in his right leg. His recovery will be monitored,” the club announced via its official website and social media channels.

While Real Madrid typically avoids specifying recovery timelines, estimates suggest Rüdiger could be out for around three weeks. This means he is expected to miss crucial fixtures, including the LaLiga derbi against Atlético Madrid (February 8), the Copa del Rey clash with CD Leganés (February 5), the league encounter against CA Osasuna (February 15), and the Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Manchester City (February 11).

When Could Rüdiger Return?

The German defender is focused on a swift recovery to rejoin the squad at a critical stage of the season. His primary target is to be fit in time for the Champions League second-leg match against Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 19. This gives him 17 days to regain full fitness.

Should his recovery take longer, Rüdiger could instead make his return for the LaLiga match against Girona CF on February 23. However, his priority remains to be available for the European showdown against Manchester City.