What was an open secret is confirmed: Antonio Rüdiger will not continue at Real Madrid. After weeks of rumors, the German defender's departure is now official.
The club and the player have agreed on a separation that ends two intense seasons, marked by defensive solidity… Also by several controversial episodes. Rüdiger ended up exhausting the patience of the locker room, the coaching staff, and the management.
Too Many Conflicts
The final trigger would have been his attitude during the last Copa del Rey match, where he was seen out of control and clashing with several teammates. Although he publicly apologized, the club had already made the decision. The message from the top floor of Bernabéu is clear: the badge is above any player.
Rüdiger leaves Real Madrid with a Champions League, a La Liga, and a Copa del Rey. Also with a Spanish Super Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, and a Club World Cup.
He has also been a defensive stronghold in many key matches. However, his fiery character has caused more than one conflict in the locker room. Carlo Ancelotti himself tried to mediate on several occasions, but the damage was already irreparable.
His destination has not yet been officially confirmed, although there is strong talk from Germany of a return to the Bundesliga, with Bayern München as the main candidate. There is also interest from Saudi Arabia and the Premier League. Rüdiger, at 32 years old, has a market… but his departure from Real Madrid comes with a bitter taste.
Huijsen and Militao as Reinforcements
Meanwhile, the club has already activated the succession plan with the arrival of Dean Huijsen, a young Spanish-Dutch defender who will arrive this summer as a future prospect. The generational change is underway.
Florentino Pérez has been adamant: discipline, youth, and projection will mark the new era of Real Madrid. The Rüdiger case is the best example that no one is above the project.
Additionally, Rüdiger's departure coincides with the return of Militao after a long-term injury. Also with Asencio's establishment in the center of the defense. Carvajal's return, which will alleviate issues on the right flank.
With Rüdiger, David Alaba will also leave. The Austrian defender caused many expectations with his signing but has not been able to meet them due to injuries.