Real Madrid’s coaching staff remain on edge as they await UEFA’s decision on whether defender Antonio Rüdiger will face a one-game suspension in the Champions League. The possible ban stems from gestures he directed toward Atlético Madrid supporters following Real Madrid’s victory at the Estadio Metropolitano in the Round of 16.
If suspended, Rüdiger would miss the first leg of Madrid’s highly anticipated quarterfinal clash against Arsenal next Tuesday at the Emirates Stadium. While UEFA has yet to announce a ruling, a report from MARCA suggests Real Madrid are preparing for the possibility of a ban, which would be confirmed as early as Friday.
With limited defensive options, manager Carlo Ancelotti would have to adjust his backline should Rüdiger be sidelined. Only Raul Asencio and David Alaba remain available at center-back, with Alaba still regaining form following a knee injury. In that scenario, Ancelotti may be forced to deploy midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni in the defensive line.