Real Madrid benched Antonio Rudiger for as long as two months

Antonio Rüdiger’s announced long-term absence has dealt Real Madrid yet another setback as the season draws to a close.

The German defender is set to miss six to eight weeks of action due to surgery for a partial rupture of the lateral meniscus in his left knee. This practically means he will miss the remainder of the season and almost the whole Club World Cup.

Rüdiger is already dealing with chronic knee pain associated with early-onset osteoarthritis and could be suspended for his tirade against the referee during the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona.

In a statement, the club said, “Antonio Rüdiger had a successful surgery today and will soon start his rehabilitation.” Real Madrid’s chances of winning La Liga and international competitions have been severely damaged by the timing of his injury.