Real Madrid suffered a 2:1 defeat against Manchester City in the sixth round of the Champions League, and among the main critics was Antonio Rüdiger, who played one of the weakest games since he arrived in Madrid.
The Spanish giant again showed problems in defense, and the German stopper, according to the impression of fans and analysts, no longer looks like a player for the highest level of the Champions League.
Real opened the game well and took the lead in the 28th minute through Rodrygo, but the advantage did not last long. Eight minutes later, after a corner, Thibaut Courtois failed to catch Josko Guardiola’s header, and Nico O’Reilly cleared the rebound to make it 1:1. Just a few minutes later, Erling Haaland converted the penalty to make it 2:1 – and it was Rüdiger who saved the penalty with a clumsy start in the penalty area.
Although Real continued to press again, neither Jude Bellingham nor the others were able to overcome Gianluigi Donnarumma, so Alonso recorded his second defeat in the group.
The German defender has always been known for his aggressive, risky style of play, but this season his mistakes are piling up. After returning from injury, he made mistakes in the German jersey, and now in a key European match.
Rüdiger vs City:
He won only 1 of 4 duels on the ground, he won 1 of 4 jump-duels, he lost 6 balls, missed a penalty, he should have received a second yellow card after a foul on Savinha. He only got a measly 3/10, which speaks volumes for his night.
Due to injuries to Militao, Alaba and Huijsen, Real Madrid now have virtually no choice but to continue using Rüdiger. But the situation is further complicated by the fact that this is the last year of the German’s contract, and he will be able to leave as a free agent next summer, writes Tportal.
There are more and more people who believe that the club should look for a new solution in defense.
The fans lost their patience
Rüdiger was the main topic on social media after the game and hardly anyone defended him.
Fans say:
‘Rüdiger continued his poor form and gifted the penalty to Haaland. Real’s defense is a disaster.’
‘It was a clean penalty on Haaland. Rüdiger is a terror.’
‘Rüdiger, awful. Valverde lost, defense in shambles.’
‘Rüdiger is finished.’
‘Rüdiger can no longer play at this level.’
‘Rüdiger has to leave this summer. We need a real stopper.’
(Vijesti.ba)
