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UEFA Investigation Puts Key Defender’s Availability at Risk
Real Madrid could be without Antonio Rudiger for their crucial Champions League quarter-final first leg against Arsenal, as UEFA continues its investigation into post-match celebrations during their last-16 win over Atletico Madrid. While several players involved are expected to receive lighter penalties, concerns are growing that Rudiger’s punishment might be more severe.
What Led to UEFA’s Investigation?
Following their dramatic penalty shootout victory over Atletico Madrid, several Real Madrid players, including Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe, Dani Ceballos, and Antonio Rudiger, found themselves under UEFA scrutiny for “indecent conduct” during their celebrations.
According to MARCA, Vinicius, Mbappe, and Ceballos will likely escape with a fine and a suspended ban, meaning they will remain eligible to play. However, Rudiger’s situation appears more complex.
The German defender, who converted the decisive penalty, was seen making a controversial gesture toward the crowd—something UEFA reportedly considers a more serious offense. Madrid now fears that Rudiger could face a one-match suspension, ruling him out of the Emirates clash on April 9.
Arsenal Also Dealing with Injury Woes
While Real Madrid may lose a defensive leader to suspension, Arsenal has their own concerns at the back.
Gabriel Magalhães, the Gunners’ key centre-back, suffered a hamstring injury during their recent 2-1 win over Fulham, forcing him off after just 16 minutes. Manager Mikel Arteta admitted he was “worried” about Gabriel’s condition and did not provide a timeline for his return.
Additionally, Ben White and Jurrien Timber remain injury doubts, while Riccardo Calafiori is expected to miss the tie entirely.
How Important Is Rudiger to Real Madrid?
Losing Rudiger would be a major blow for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad, especially given their defensive struggles this season. With David Alaba only recently returning from an ACL injury, Madrid’s backline has lacked stability. Alaba, who had a poor showing in the Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad, may not yet be ready for a game of this magnitude.
Rudiger, on the other hand, has been a rock at the heart of Madrid’s defense, playing almost every minute this season. His aggression, leadership, and ability to marshal the backline have been crucial, making his potential absence a significant concern.
What’s Next?
UEFA is set to announce its final decision on Friday, determining whether Rudiger will be available for the quarter-final first leg. If the ban is upheld, how will Ancelotti adjust his defense against an Arsenal side boasting a strong attacking unit? And with Gabriel potentially sidelined, will the Gunners have their own defensive headaches?
