Real Madrid’s defensive leader set to be ruled out of both UCL matches against Man City | OneFootball

Real Madrid suffered yet another injury blow this week as Antonio Rudiger picked up a hamstring injury.

Initial reports suggested that the German international’s injury was not that serious and that he could be available in Real Madrid’s second leg tie against Manchester City, in the knockout playoffs of the UEFA Champions League.

Fresh update on Rudiger’s fitness

However, COPE has offered a fresh update on the fitness of Rudiger, suggesting that the defender could be out for longer.

As per the report, Rudiger could be ruled out for at least three weeks, which means the defender won’t be available in both the ties against Manchester City.

Rudiger could be out for both clashes against Man City. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

This serves as a major blow for Real Madrid, who are already devoid of options in the defensive unit.

Apart from Rudiger, the club are missing Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao through long-term injuries, whereas David Alaba has just returned from a long injury layoff.

Real Madrid will hope Rudiger’s absence won’t be felt in the crucial UCL matches against Man City, where both sides will be fighting for a place in the Round of 16 stage.

It must be noted that Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is under severe pressure and his job could be on the line, should Los Blancos get knocked out early in the UCL.

At the same time, though, Ancelotti is unlikely to receive any support from the board, with Real Madrid unlikely to change their transfer stance, as far as the January window is concerned.