Real Madrid centre-back Antonio Rüdiger is facing intense criticism following Los Blancos’ Champions League elimination at the hands of Arsenal, with Dutch football legends Rafael van der Vaart and Theo Janssen blasting the German international for his behaviour during the match.

Rüdiger was involved in two controversial incidents in the 2-1 loss at the Santiago Bernabéu, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate defeat. First, he threw Arsenal defender Jurriën Timber to the ground during a corner kick. Then, in an even more alarming moment, he appeared to step on the stomach of Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly, who was lying on the pitch.

The incidents were analysed on Ziggo Sport, where former Vitesse midfielder Theo Janssen didn’t mince words.

“With Rüdiger, we all think that when he stands on him, it is a deliberate action,” Janssen began.

After reviewing the footage, he doubled down: “Yes, this is a deliberate action. I think he can jump over him.”

Rafael van der Vaart, who played for Real Madrid between 2008 and 2010, went even further, recalling his own past with Rüdiger.

“He played for Stuttgart when I played in Germany. He hit me in the stomach and got a red card,” the former midfielder said. “Yeah, you know, he’s a bit of an idiot…!”

Van der Vaart also pointed out the double standards in how Rüdiger is perceived.

“As long as you win it’s all fun and games, but when you lose it looks completely different,” he added.

Janssen agreed and brought up Rüdiger’s infamous duels with Manchester City striker Erling Haaland.

“We can all remember the duels with (Manchester City striker Erling) Haaland,” Janssen stated. “He kept hanging on him, jumping and committing fouls. With that he completely played Haaland out of the game for two matches. He also has something.”

While Rüdiger’s aggressive style has helped Real Madrid in the past, his latest antics have overshadowed his performance. With the season reaching its climax and Carlo Ancelotti reportedly set to depart after the Copa del Rey final, Real Madrid will need their senior players to step up—not lash out.