A new update from MARCA has shed light on the situation surrounding Antonio Rudiger, offering reassurance to Real Madrid fans who have been waiting for his return.
According to the report, if the German defender is not included in the squad for the upcoming match against Elche, he will almost certainly make the list for the Champions League clash against Olympiacos.
Either way, the timeline for his comeback is now clear, and it arrives at a crucial moment for Xabi Alonso.
Important recovery for Alonso
There is no denying that Alonso needs Rudiger back as soon as possible.
The manager has been forced to go through the opening stretch of the season with a very compact defensive line, and the absence of a figure as commanding as Rudiger has been felt in every match.
Beyond his defensive quality, it is said that Alonso values the centre-back’s fire, intensity, and competitive mindset. In fact, his influence on the dressing room is just as important as his impact on the pitch.
Antonio Rudiger is very close to returning to action. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)
Rudiger’s last appearance for Real Madrid dates back to the 3-0 win over Real Oviedo in August. Since then, he featured in two matches for Germany before being sidelined from September onwards.
The long spell away might have seemed like a setback, but within the club, there is a growing sense that this enforced break has come with unexpected benefits.
Much-needed rest for Rudiger
After all this time, Rudiger has finally had the chance to disconnect and recover fully, something those close to him say he has never been able to do properly.
Real Madrid are now preparing to welcome what many internally describe as a “new” Rudiger, refreshed and re-energised after the longest pause of his career.
With the decisive phase of the season approaching, Alonso sees Rudiger almost as a luxury signing.
His presence is expected to restore confidence and stability to the backline, giving Real Madrid the defensive strength they will need in the months ahead.