Real Madrid and Germany defender Antonio Rüdiger had a knee operation on Tuesday and could now miss the Nations League Final Four and the Club World Cup. The centre back was already facing a lengthy ban from the Spanish FA after throwing an object at the referee in Saturday's Spanish Cup final defeat to Barcelona.

Real Madrid defender Antonio Ruediger has undergone knee surgery, the LaLiga club said on Tuesday, hours before the German was given a six-match ban by the Spanish FA for his behaviour in the recent Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona.

Real Madrid's Antonio Ruediger has had knee surgery after ongoing issues. The defender, involved in a controversial Copa del Rey incident, could face a suspension. Despite the setback, Real Madrid aims to close the gap on league leaders with important games ahead.