Concerns have been mounting within Real Madrid in recent hours following unexpected developments that have disrupted the plans of the technical staff, led by Xabi Alonso, ahead of a series of crucial matches in both La Liga and the Champions League.
Sources close to the club have confirmed that the medical staff informed the board of a shocking diagnosis involving one of the team’s key defensive pillars, which prompted a reevaluation of tactical options, although no official details were initially disclosed.
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It was later revealed that German defender Antonio Rüdiger had suffered a serious knee injury that is expected to sideline him for 10 to 12 weeks, meaning he won’t return before December at the earliest. Notably, this is the same knee on which he previously underwent surgery, which further deepens concerns over his recovery.
The club’s medical team emphasized the importance of not rushing his return. Rüdiger will follow a specialized rehabilitation program to prevent setbacks, an approach that adds further complexity to Xabi Alonso’s plans for the upcoming phase of the season.
Despite the severity of the blow, the club’s management remains committed to its long-term transfer strategy. For this reason, there are no plans to accelerate negotiations with Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté, whom Real Madrid aims to sign on a free transfer in the summer of 2026, once his contract with the Reds expires.
With limited options available, Alonso will have to rely on the current squad. The club believes there is still enough depth at center-back to manage Rüdiger’s absence.
But the real question is: Can Madrid’s defense hold firm under the pressure of upcoming fixtures without one of its most reliable anchors?
