Real Madrid academy talent set to be promoted to fill in for Antonio Rudiger | OneFootball

As confirmed just a while back, Antonio Rudiger has undergone knee surgery to take care of the chronic problem that had been troubling him throughout the season.

The German defender was staring at an extended suspension following his red card in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. As such, he decided to take advantage of the situation and went under the knife.

Rudiger is now expected to be out for a period of two months, meaning he will miss the remaining five matches in La Liga as well as the FIFA Club World Cup in the USA in the summer.

Jacobo Ramon to take Rudiger’s place

Now, according to journalist Jose Luis Sanchez on El Chiringuito TV, Real Madrid will promote Jacobo Ramon from within the academy to fill in for Rudiger during his extended absence.

Jacobo Ramon could get some chances in the senior team now. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

The 20-year-old La Fabrica defender has already made his first-team debut this season, featuring as a substitute in the UEFA Champions League game against RB Salzburg in January.

Following that, Jacobo made another appearance, starting a Copa del Rey tie against Leganes in February.

With Rudiger now set to be out of action for the end of the season as well as the Club World Cup, it appears like Jacobo will be in line for more opportunities.

After all, Real Madrid are left with only Raul Asencio and David Alaba as the natural centre-backs in the squad, although Aurelien Tchouameni can fill in when needed.

Eder Militao, for his part, is recovering well from his ACL injury and might make it back in time for the Club World Cup in the summer. If not, Jacobo will likely have a role to play in the tournament in the USA.