Rudiger awaits Real Madrid

Antonio Rudiger has been performing exceptionally well recently, particularly against Manchester City in the Champions League, and is awaiting a new contract from Real Madrid.

Last weekend, Alvaro Arbeloa made interesting remarks when asked about Antonio Rudiger's future. He said he would erect a statue of him "in his garden." This can be seen as clear evidence of the change in Real Madrid's perspective. Arbeloa's arguments reflect how the club evaluates the contributions the German defender can still bring.

His contract expires on June 30, and his future remains undecided. But if a few months ago, the possibility of staying at the Bernabeu seemed bleak, after resolving his knee issue, everything has changed. Now, extending the contract with the 33-year-old defender is becoming a realistic possibility.

"From the very first day I arrived, Rudi was always ready to serve the coaching staff," Arbeloa affirmed. "I remember clearly him sitting and saying: 'Coach, by March, I will be ready; when the toughest phase arrives, I will be there.' He did it. It's fortunate that the treatment he underwent with Niko Mihic in London proved so effective." Arbeloa added: "He is a role model for all young players to follow. I hope Real Madrid fans understand how fortunate the club is to have him in the squad."

Rudiger endured a very difficult end to 2025 due to a severe hamstring injury. Subsequently, upon returning, he faced knee issues. The special treatment he underwent in London at the end of January was highly effective. The injections into his knee helped prevent fluid accumulation after each match. Consequently, the intense pain and inflammation disappeared.

Real Madrid highly values Rudiger's attitude over the past months. He played most of last season in pain, even taking painkillers before each training session to endure it. By the King's Cup final against Barcelona, his body could no withstand it. Afterwards, he had to undergo arthroscopy. Despite this, he still endeavored to play in the FIFA Club World Cup, continuing to push through the season to support the team...

The decision to pause and undergo treatment in London, coinciding with Arbeloa's arrival and receiving his approval, became a turning point. Evidence that Rudiger overcame his physical issues is his playing six consecutive matches, counting up to before the derby with Atletico. He started 9 out of the previous 10 matches, with 8 of those appearances lasting the full 90 minutes.

Rudiger strongly desires to stay for another season at Real Madrid. He is also getting closer to a World Cup opportunity, although the rise of Jonathan Tah and Nico Schlotterbeck might make it difficult for him to be a starter.