Former FIFA referee Thorsten Kinhöfer is urging Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann to consider excluding Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger from the team following misconduct in the El Classico final.
The Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Barcelona turned into a true spectacle, filled with tension, disputes, and emotions.
Over 120 minutes of play, spectators witnessed fierce competition, and Jules Koundé’s decisive goal in the closing stages secured victory for the Catalans.
However, the most significant uproar came after the final whistle, when Antonio Rudiger furiously confronted the referee team.
The former Chelsea defender lost control, confronting referee De Burgos Bengoetxea following final whistle. Rudiger attempted to throw an ice pack at the referee, but his teammates quickly intervened and stopped him.
The tough-tackling defender is facing a potential 4-12 match suspension for breaching Article 101 of the disciplinary code
Rudiger has been criticized heavily following his actions, with legends of the Germany national team calling for his exclusion from the team.
However, the retired Germany referee has backed calls for the exclusion of the tough-tackling defender.
“Rüdiger’s behavior is a disgrace. The national team coach should consider whether such a person can continue to represent our country,” Kinhöfer stated.
Meanwhile, Rudiger is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after picking up an injury at the weekend.
Rudiger had to be substituted during Real Madrid’s clash against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final last Saturday. The tough-tackling defender has underwent surgery on a torn meniscus in his left knee, ruling him out for several weeks.
The defender is expected to begin recovery soon, but according to Spanish media, the German will be out for two months.
