BIG BLOW: Antonio Rudiger suffers huge injury scare ahead of Real Madrid’s second leg trip to Atletico Madrid

Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger is at risk of missing their crucial second-leg Champions League showdown against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday due to injury concerns.

The German international, who has Sierra Leonean heritage, was absent from Los Blancos’ 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.

He previously endured a four-game spell on the sidelines last month with a muscular issue but returned to play key roles in Madrid’s European wins against Manchester City and Atletico.

However, Rüdiger missed Saturday’s training session due to flu-like symptoms and is also dealing with discomfort in his knee, putting his availability for the last-16 tie in doubt.

Real Madrid carry a narrow 2-1 lead into the second leg away at the Wanda Metropolitano.

In his absence, David Alaba partnered with Raul Asencio against Rayo Vallecano. But with Alaba still recovering from a serious ACL injury, it remains uncertain whether he will be ready to start against Atletico just three days later.

Rudiger has made a total of appearances for Real Madrid in the ongoing season with two goals to his credit.