Real Madrid are facing a defensive dilemma ahead of their Champions League showdown with Arsenal as Antonio Rüdiger could be sidelined due to a UEFA disciplinary investigation. The German center-back is among several Madrid players under scrutiny following their post-match celebrations after eliminating Atlético Madrid in the Round of 16.
According to MARCA, UEFA launched the investigation after Atlético Madrid filed formal complaints about the behavior of Real Madrid players following the derby victory. While teammates Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Dani Ceballos are also being investigated, their cases appear less severe, with the trio likely facing only fines or deferred one-match suspensions.
Rüdiger’s situation, however, is reportedly more complicated. The German defender’s gestures during the celebrations were allegedly interpreted as threatening, making his case potentially more serious. This distinction has raised concerns within the Madrid camp that he could receive an immediate suspension rather than a deferred one, potentially ruling him out of the crucial Arsenal fixture.
The timing couldn’t be worse for Carlo Ancelotti’s side as they prepare for the quarterfinal tie against Mikel Arteta’s in-form Arsenal. Rüdiger has been a defensive cornerstone for Real Madrid this season, bringing experience, physicality, and leadership to their backline.
Real Madrid’s defensive options would be significantly limited without Rüdiger, especially considering their recent injury concerns. His absence would force Ancelotti to reshuffle his defensive setup against an Arsenal attack that has been prolific in both domestic and European competitions this season.
UEFA’s disciplinary committee is expected to announce their decision shortly, leaving Real Madrid anxiously waiting to learn if they’ll have their defensive stalwart available for one of their most important matches of the season. The club will be hoping that any punishment is limited to a fine or deferred suspension, allowing Rüdiger to face Arsenal in this high-stakes Champions League encounter.
