Real's Ruediger undergoes knee surgery

Spanish media reports that the 32-year-old German international is considering surgery to fix ongoing knee problems

Champions League - Round of 16 - Second Leg - Atletico Madrid v Real Madrid - Metropolitano, Madrid, Spain - Mar 12, 2025 Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe and Antonio Rudiger celebrate after the match REUTERS/Susana Vera

Real Madrid defender Antonio Ruediger has undergone knee surgery, the LaLiga club said on Tuesday.

Spanish media had reported that the 32-year-old German international was considering surgery to fix ongoing knee problems.

"Our player Antonio Ruediger underwent successful surgery today for a partial tear in the external meniscus of his left leg," Real said in a statement. "Ruediger will begin recovery work shortly."

Ruediger was sent off during Saturday's Copa del Rey final for his angry reaction after the referee called a foul for a challenge by Kylian Mbappe moments after Jules Kounde had scored deep into extra time to put Barca ahead.

Ruediger, who apologised for his behaviour, could be suspended for between four and 12 matches.

Real, four points below league leaders Barcelona with five matches left, host Celta Vigo on Sunday.