National player Antonio Rüdiger has been one of the hottest defenders on the transfer market in recent months. FC Bayern was also said to be interested in the native Berliner. A move to Munich was never an option for the 29-year-old.
Internationally experienced and tried and tested, in the best footballing age and free of charge: This highly attractive overall package has made Antonio Rüdiger interesting for many clubs in recent months. FC Bayern is also said to have tried to attract the German international. But Munich had no chance from the start.
As Rüdiger said in an interview with the Spanish newspaper “mark” revealed a move to the Isar was never an issue for him. Yes, there have been many discussions with clubs, the centre-back said: “But to be honest, I only considered Chelsea or Madrid.”
Rüdiger’s contract in London expired after the season. Negotiations with the Blues could not go ahead as planned due to sanctions against ex-owner Roman Abramovich. In the end, the royals from Madrid secured the contract.
Real instead of FC Bayern: “Biggest step of my career”
Rüdiger is now starting a new chapter with the reigning Champions League winner. “It’s a big step for me. Probably the biggest step in my career,” said the 29-year-old, who signed a contract with Real until 2026. Rüdiger admitted that he was proud and hadn’t really realized what the change meant to him.
When he first heard about Real’s interest, he just thought “Wow!” The international recalled: “In September or October [2021] they contacted me for the first time. It was very exciting, because a club like that doesn’t call often.” Working with a coach like Carlo Ancelotti is an “honour”, emphasized the newcomer: “You don’t have to say much about him.”
Antonio Rüdiger does not yet know what he will say at his presentation in the Spanish capital. He hasn’t started language lessons either: “But what I’m going to say to my teammates and the fans is easy: I’ll give my heart in every game and every situation. I can promise that. I’ll give 100 percent every day.”