'We don't have to act as if he killed someone!' - Toni Kroos defends Antonio Rudiger amid calls for 'massive' ban after 'crazy' outburst following Real Madrid's Copa del Rey final defeat to Barcelona

Real Madrid's narrow 3-2 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final turned chaotic in its closing stages, with emotions spilling over in dramatic fashion. As Real launched a desperate late attack, a contentious decision by the referee in Barcelona’s favour sparked outrage among the Madrid ranks, particularly from Rudiger.

In a moment of fury, Rudiger reportedly hurled what appeared to be a piece of ice toward the referee. His actions, along with heated protests from teammates Jude Bellingham and Lucas Vazquez, led to all three players being shown red by referee Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea. The situation escalated as Rudiger had to be physically restrained by fellow Real players and coaching staff to prevent further confrontation with the match official.

RFEF's disciplinary committee will be deliberating on the appropriate disciplinary measures. Current speculation suggests Rudiger may receive a ban ranging between four and twelve matches, a punishment that could potentially rule him out for the remainder of the domestic campaign.

Speaking at an Icon League event in Düsseldorf, Kroos emphasised that while Rudiger’s behaviour crossed the line, public reaction should not escalate the situation beyond reason.

"He'll get his punishment, and it will be justified. But we still don't have to act as if he killed someone," Kroos said. "You always have to be a bit careful not to go with the flow."

Adding to the voices calling for leniency and perspective, German football legend Oliver Kahn also backed Rudiger, highlighting the emotional intensity of top-level football.

"Emotions on the pitch aren't always helpful. But who doesn't cross the line sometimes? Antonio Rüdiger has shown insight. That should be enough for now," the 55-year-old wrote on X.

In the wake of the incident, Rudiger issued an apology via social media, acknowledging his conduct and expressing regret for letting emotions take control. Unfortunately for the 31-year-old, the red card will not be the only thing keeping him off the pitch. Real Madrid confirmed that Rudiger has undergone surgery on his left meniscus, an injury that will sideline him for the remainder of the season regardless of any forthcoming suspension.

Despite his immediate absence from the squad, Rudiger might still have a role to play this summer when Real Madrid participates in the revamped Club World Cup in the United States. They begin their campaign on June 18 against Al-Hilal.