Rudiger undergoes successful meniscus surgery after months of pain

Abdullateef Fowewe

Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger has undergone successful knee surgery after battling through more than seven months of severe pain, the club confirmed in a press release on Tuesday.

The German defender is now on the road to recovery and will miss the remainder of the season, with hopes of returning in time for major tournaments this summer.

“After I have played more than seven months with severe pain, it was unfortunately unavoidable that I had to undergo meniscus surgery.

“Now I’m finally pain-free again, and the surgery was a success. 🙌🏾 Thanks to the medical team,” Rudiger shared on social media.

Rudiger, 32, has been a key figure for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, featuring in 49 matches this season despite his persistent knee issues. The operation, performed by Dr. Manuel Leyes and Real Madrid’s medical staff, addressed a partial tear in the outer meniscus of his right knee.

Looking ahead, Rudiger thereby expressed determination to return for upcoming competitions, stating, “I want to be able to play again as soon as possible as two big tournaments with the Nations League and the Club World Cup are in front of me, but I have to look from week to week now and we will see.

“I will do everything I can to make it happen. See you soon and take care of yourselves.❤️ #Hustle #AlwaysBelieve.”

Medical sources estimate Rudiger’s recovery will take between six weeks and two months, making his participation in the Club World Cup and Nations League a race against time.