Real Madrid’s defence has taken a major blow just 48 hours before the transfer window closes, as star defender Antonio Rudiger was forced off the pitch due to injury in their 1-0 defeat to Espanyol in La Liga.
This defeat marks another setback for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, which has already been struggling with injuries this season.
Rudiger, who has been a vital part of the team, starting all 22 games for Real Madrid this season, limped off the pitch during the match. The former Chelsea defender was playing alongside Aurelien Tchouameni when he picked up the injury just 15 minutes into the game.
Holding his left thigh, it was clear that Rudiger was in discomfort, and he was swiftly replaced by Raul Asencio. A strapping on his right thigh also suggested that he may have been dealing with previous injury concerns.
This latest injury to Rudiger comes at a time when Real Madrid has already been missing key players like Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal. Ancelotti and the team will be hoping that the injury is minor and doesn’t sideline the 31-year-old for an extended period.
The team is already stretched with their defensive options, and losing Rudiger for an extended time would be a major blow to their title hopes.
The German international has been an essential part of the defence, helping keep Real Madrid at the top of the La Liga standings. Following the match, Rudiger is expected to undergo scans in the coming days to determine the extent of his injury.
Real Madrid will be hoping for a quick recovery, as they have crucial upcoming fixtures in the UEFA Champions League against Atletico Madrid and Manchester City.
In the match itself, Espanyol pulled off a surprise win, with Carlos Romero scoring the only goal of the game in the 85th minute. This victory was a huge boost for Espanyol, as it moved them out of the relegation zone, but it leaves Real Madrid with more questions than answers.
The Madrid side thought they had taken the lead in the first half, only for VAR to rule out a goal due to a foul by Kylian Mbappe in the build-up.
Espanyol’s goalkeeper, Joan Garcia, had an incredible performance, making seven key saves to keep Real Madrid at bay. Even after a near-red card in the 61st minute, Garcia’s composure between the posts kept his side in the game.
Romero’s late goal stunned Real Madrid, with their hopes of securing all three points dashed.
The loss leaves Real Madrid still in first place in the league standings with 49 points, but the defeat has opened up the title race in La Liga. Atletico Madrid is just one point behind in second, with 48 points, while Barcelona sits in third place with 42 points.
The defeat has shown that, even with Real Madrid’s strong squad, they are vulnerable and that the competition is fierce this season.
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