Nagelsmann directly communicates his stance to Rudiger
In the aftermath of his contentious behavior during the Spanish Cup final, German national team defender Antonio Rüdiger has received a stern warning from coach Julian Nagelsmann. The vice-captain must demonstrate discipline and self-control moving forward, as Nagelsmann has made clear that Rüdiger has reached a critical juncture in his career with the national team.
Nagelsmann expressed his disappointment with Rüdiger's actions, which involved throwing a roll of tape at the referee from the bench during Real Madrid's loss to Barcelona (2:3 a.e.t.). The incident led to a red card and subsequent verbal insults toward the official. Teammates and staff members were required to restrain Rüdiger, and he was subsequently served a six-match ban by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
Rüdiger has acknowledged his mistake, and Nagelsmann indicated that the defender is entering a period of evaluation. "He knows it was wrong," Nagelsmann stated. "I'm looking forward to better behavior from him in the future."
While the DFB sports director did not impose any additional sanctions on Rüdigger, Nagelsmann and Föller held a conversation with the defender following the incident, delivering their message with firmness. "Such behavior is unacceptable, especially for a German national player," Föller asserted. "Toni is a great player, but he must display class and respect in his conduct as a national player."
Rüdiger is currently sidelined due to a knee operation and will miss the Germany-Portugal Nations League semi-final on Wednesday. His return to action will have to wait until his suspension expires. The incidence has raised questions about Rüdiger's discipline and conduct on and off the field, and the defender will need to demonstrate a marked improvement in his behavior to maintain his position as a key member of the national team.
Enrichment Data:The six-match ban imposed by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) on Rüdiger followed an incident during the Spanish Cup final, where he was ejected for throwing an object, reportedly an ice cube, at the referee. This ban was upheld despite Real Madrid's appeal. Rüdiger and teammate Lucas Vázquez received straight red cards during the match for their reactions. Rüdiger will miss Real Madrid's La Liga opener for the 2025-26 season due to the ongoing suspension.
Despite the ongoing suspension, Rüdiger will miss both the Nations League semi-final against Portugal and Real Madrid's La Liga opener for the 2025-26 season. The Commission has not yet adopted a decision on the application of the UEFA directive regarding Rüdiger's behavior during the Spanish Cup final, yet his actions in sports, such as football, have raised concerns about his discipline and conduct.
