Antonio Rudiger enters his fourth season at Real Madrid with a situation reminiscent of his arrival. The 2025/26 campaign, his last under contract, began with the veteran star suspended – serving th...
Antonio Rudiger enters his fourth season at Real Madrid with a situation reminiscent of his arrival.
The 2025/26 campaign, his last under contract, began with the veteran star suspended – serving the final game of a six-match ban for his conduct in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
Now available again, he must adapt to a new reality and face a new challenge: from being indispensable for Carlo Ancelotti over the past two years, to battling once more for a place in a backline now set to be led by Eder Militao and Dean Huijsen, reports AS.
From Real Madrid’s defensive leader to battling for his place
In the last two seasons, Rudiger was the undisputed general of Madrid’s defence. No outfield player saw more action than him last term (4,532 minutes), and in 2023/24 he was second only to Federico Valverde in minutes played (4,076).
Long-term injuries to Eder Militao and David Alaba thrust extra responsibility onto his shoulders, and he embraced it. Alongside Nacho, Aurelien Tchouameni and academy graduate Raul Asencio, Rudiger carried the defence through a testing period.
A new reality for Rudiger. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
It must be noted that during this time, the German was dealing with injury woes of his own. Indeed, Rudiger battled on despite a partial meniscus tear in his left knee, playing through discomfort and pain, which affected his performances.
However, he eventually underwent surgery after the Copa del Rey final to be ready for the FIFA Club World Cup – where Huijsen made his breakthrough and Militao staged his comeback.
Rudiger’s performances after returning were far from ideal, leading to question marks over his continuity at the club beyond this season.
Now, with age advancing and competition fierce, his new challenge is clear: to remain just as important to Real Madrid, even if his role means fewer minutes.
Throughout his three-year stint at Real Madrid, Rudiger has embodied grit, commitment, and defiance. It is why the Bernabeu faithful adore him and he remains determined to fight his way back.
Category: General Sports
