In a recent statement, Getafe defender Riko recounted an incident with German opponent Antonio Rudiger during a La Liga match against Real Madrid, where Riko claimed Rudiger tried to injure him. This occurred in the first half of the match, which Getafe won 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu. Riko expressed that Rudiger's actions were intentional and aggressive, raising concerns about player safety on the field.

Riko described a specific moment where Rudiger struck him on the head with his knee, which caused a stir among the Getafe players. He provided an account on Spanish radio, indicating that there was a prior foul by Rudiger during their exchanges, which adds context to the emotional intensity of the encounter. He viewed Rudiger's actions as deliberate, suggesting that they stemmed from frustration after receiving a foul call against him in an earlier play.

This incident not only highlights the competitive nature of intense local rivalries in Spanish football but also raises questions about officiating and enforcement of rules regarding aggressive play. Riko noted that he had continued to play despite the blow, suggesting that players often feel compelled to endure such challenges without adequate protection from referees. The implications for player safety and the need for stricter rules on violent conduct in football are crucial topics of discussion in the aftermath of this incident.