Rüdiger Faces a Ban of Between 4 and 12 Matches, K.O. Until Almost the World Cup

One of the most negative notes of the Copa del Rey final for Real Madrid, besides the cruel defeat against FC Barcelona, is Antonio Rüdiger. The German '22' was replaced in the final minutes due to his right knee discomfort and fatigue, but his major role came during the last two minutes... against Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea.

The referee's decision to call a foul on Mbappé in the final stretch of extra time infuriated the German center-back, who believed there was nothing punishable in that action. The angry protests of the German defender escalated when he threw an object at the referee, which ultimately cost him a direct red card. He wasn't the only one booked by de Burgos Bengoetxea, as Jude Bellingham and Lucas Vázquez also received that red card.

But the writing of the referee's report, as well as most of the comments, focus on Antonio Rüdiger. The agitation shown by the strong Madrid defender has led Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea to write in his report: "throwing an object from the technical area without hitting me". The Basque referee also noted that "he had to be restrained by several members of the coaching staff, showing an aggressive attitude".

Given these provisions written by the match's field referee, Antonio Rüdiger could face a suspension of four to twelve matches. That punishment for the German '22', exceeding the number of four games, definitely extends to the only tournament remaining to be played in the 24/25 season: LaLiga.

Complicated Situation

The absence of the German center-back, regardless of how many matches it is, is a very significant loss for Carlo Ancelotti's tactical plans. The Reggiolo coach has entrusted the German '22' with the leadership of the defensive line due to the constant injuries of the center-backs and left-backs this season.

Without the German footballer, whose suspension would be long-term, the first team's coach will have to rebuild the defensive line once again for another five crucial matches. Because the fight for the LaLiga leadership is still ongoing, given the mere four-point gap between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. There are still five matches left to solve the issue, in addition to a Clásico at Montjuïc that will be decisive for those aspirations.

Real Madrid will have to play those matches without one of its most important defenders of the last three seasons. Antonio Rüdiger has gradually become an essential player for the white club... but now he is out of the critical stretch of the current season due to disciplinary reasons.

The responsibility of leading the Madrid defense could now fall on Raúl Asencio. The homegrown merengue player, still with the '35' on his back, has become the loyal 'squire' of Antonio Rüdiger since he joined the first team months ago. He has proven to be more than ready for a competitive ordeal like the one Santiago Bernabéu locker room faces.