Ancelotti's True 'Protégé,' the Coach Fears for him and Will Leave Him out

Real Madrid, despite having navigated a dangerous situation both in LaLiga and the Champions League, still needs to solve the final stages of both competitions. Especially in the premier continental tournament, whose league phase ends in just two days: it is about securing a victory by a landslide, if possible.

One of the key players on the team so far this season is none other than Antonio Rüdiger. The German '22', since arriving at Santiago Bernabéu changing room in the 2022 summer, has played practically everything. The injuries of Éder Militão or David Alaba, on repeated occasions, have kept him as a mainstay in the heart of the Meringue defense.

His teammates have varied: Nacho Fernández, Aurélien Tchouaméni, or Raúl Asencio have been the three central defenders who, for the past year and a half, have played alongside Rüdiger. But Ancelotti decided to give continuity to the tough Berlin central defender, even though his physical condition is starting to show some issues.

Now that David Alaba has returned, the situation is entirely different. With Rüdiger, Raúl Asencio, the Austrian '4', and the occasional 'cameos' of Tchouaméni in the defensive line, Real Madrid has up to four central defenders. The rotation of Antonio Rüdiger has ceased to be a fantasy and has become practically an obligation.

Untouchable mainstay

This is why it is not surprising that Carlo Ancelotti gave him a rest during the Champions League match against RB Salzburg. Besides allowing David Alaba to regain competitive rhythm, Antonio Rüdiger begins his recovery earlier than expected, gaining time and strength. The information published by the sports daily MARCA could not be clearer in this regard.

This sports daily, in addition to recalling the essential role Rüdiger plays, has left a curious saying circulating around the Valdebebas Sports City. "If Rüdiger catches a cold, it will really be a drama," some members of the technical staff led by Carlo Ancelotti understand. This is why the Reggiolo coach has decided to increase his rotation.

The main objective is to prevent the Madrid '22' from getting injured. Despite the arthritis that has reportedly settled in his right knee, it seems the situation is under control... although it is not advisable for the German player to undergo unnecessary exertion.

Aware that a demanding and high-stakes end of the season is approaching, Carlo Ancelotti prefers to be conservative in his management of Antonio Rüdiger, giving him rest in these matches. Only in this way can the Berlin central defender effectively complete his recovery just in time for the matches that truly define the 24/25 season for Real Madrid.