Real Madrid News
Injury update: Real Madrid defender does not have a fracture, in contention for El Clasico
After Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday night, Antonio Rudiger was the obvious talking point after suffering a brutal cut on his forehead, which left his entire face and shirt bloody.
As the German international contested for Toni Kroos’ inswinging corner before scoring the 95th minute equaliser, he suffered the unsparing injury.
However, several onlookers questioned whether the former Chelsea defender’s condition, considering such a severe clash could have major ramifications.
As reported by journalist Jose Luis Sanchez, there have been no signs of a bone lesion after assessing the knock suffered by Antonio Rudiger.
Further details suggest that it is being assessed whether the Champions League winner could wear a protective mask that covers his face, which is described as a ‘complex process’ ahead of the upcoming El Clasico.
However, it is mentioned that up until this point, the 29-year-old has not been ruled out of the early La Liga title decider.
Even if Rudiger is deemed unavailable in the much-awaited clash against Barcelona, the hope remains among Madridistas that his return on the pitch is imminent.
Despite Eder Militao and David Alaba forming one of Europe’s finest centre-back pairings, the addition of the ex-Roma star has added a different dimension to the side, in terms of his pinpoint distribution, beastly physicality and unrivalled ball-carrying ability from the defence.
Especially considering Real Madrid have a busy schedule in October ahead of them, the last thing the club needs is the absence of a key player, with the side aiming not to lose their grip on both the title hunt in La Liga and the Champions League.
With Antonio Rudiger having worn a facemask during his time at Chelsea before, it would not come as a surprise to see the lionhearted defender return to proceedings straightaway.
As Real Madrid look to restart the campaign following the end of the international break, all focus will be on the upcoming El Clasico in Copa del Rey on April 5.
However, before they take on their arch-rivals for a fourth time this year, Real Madrid must see off the challenge from Real Valladolid in La Liga on Sunday.
Given Barcelona’s 12-point advantage at the top of the table, La Liga appears to be a lost cause for Real Madrid right now. But that is no excuse for Carlo Ancelotti’s men to appear complacent, as they look to push for a late title charge.
However, heading into this contest, three Real Madrid players proceed with caution as they are running the risk of missing out on the next league game against Villarreal due to yellow cards.
The three players in question are Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Carvajal, and Dani Ceballos. All three of these players have picked up four yellow cards in La Liga this term. Therefore, picking up another booking against Valladolid will rule them out in the next game.
Camavinga, in particular, has been a vital part of the Real Madrid squad since the turn of the year, impressing onlookers with his performances and versatility.
Carvajal, too, is a critical option at right-back and his experience could go a long way in helping Real Madrid end the league campaign on a positive note. Not to mention, the club lack the services of a reliable alternative, which has led to links with Reece James this coming summer.
Ceballos, on the other hand, has been one of the emerging stars this year. The midfielder’s performances have been excellent lately, and he would not want to lose any momentum by picking up a suspension ahead of the important Villarreal game next week.
