Real Madrid’s preparations for their Champions League quarterfinal against Arsenal have taken a tense turn. Antonio Rüdiger, the German center-back who arrived from Chelsea in 2022, may miss Tuesday’s first-leg showdown at the Emirates. UEFA is reviewing a post-match gesture Rüdiger made after Real Madrid’s victory over Atlético Madrid in the previous round. According to Marca, an official decision could come as early as Friday.
In that decisive clash, Rüdiger scored a crucial penalty. During the ensuing celebrations, he made what many interpreted as a throat-slitting gesture toward Atlético fans. The move was “not well received” by the home supporters, leading to an ongoing investigation that may result in a one-game ban. Teammates Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappé, and Dani Ceballos are also under scrutiny for their celebrations, though reports suggest they will likely face fines rather than suspensions.
Despite the looming uncertainty, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti remains calm. “We believe everything was correct and we hope UEFA makes a decision,” he told reporters. “Our players didn’t do anything wrong. We trust that everything will end well.” His confidence might be tested if the ruling comes down against Rüdiger, especially with limited defensive reinforcements available. David Alaba is still recovering full match fitness, and Aurelien Tchouaméni is already suspended for the first leg due to accumulated yellow cards. If Rüdiger is sidelined, Ancelotti may be forced to rely on less-seasoned options for one of the most critical fixtures of the season.
Ancelotti stays composed
Arsenal, meanwhile, won’t be sympathetic. Mikel Arteta’s side is determined to return to European glory, and they’ve shown resilience despite recent injuries to key players. There’s also a sense that Rüdiger’s absence, if confirmed, could shift the balance. His experience in high-pressure matches is well known in England, thanks to his five-year tenure at Stamford Bridge, which included a Champions League triumph with Chelsea.
The stakes are always high when these clubs meet on a prestigious stage. Real Madrid’s European tradition needs no introduction, yet Arsenal has plenty of motivation. The Gunners have never won the Champions League and are hungry to shake off their near misses from past campaigns.
For now, all eyes are on UEFA’s disciplinary committee. Should the committee impose a ban, it could reshape next week’s lineup, forcing Ancelotti to field a makeshift backline on a night when every mistake is magnified.
