Real Madrid has a lot of problems. Leader of La Liga, the Spanish club lost Tuesday against Liverpool in the Champions League (1-0). It was enough for the Iberian press to unpack everything it has in stock. Thus, it was again a question of the tensions between Xabi Alonso and some of his players, who did not understand why he brought Trent Alexander-Arnold into play at Anfield. The former Reds player was whistled and booed by a large part of the stadium. The 43-year-old coach did not make the right decision according to them, he who is considered cold and distant. His management of the group was also singled out by Antonio Rüdiger who made it known to one of the deputies a few days ago.
Real Madrid consider extending the German
Although injured with a hamstring, the German is still very involved in the locker room, where his voice counts. But he is about to make his return, having been absent for almost 2 months. This is what he revealed to the press this week. “There’s nothing I hate more than being hurt.” I’ll be back soon. I needed this time because the preparation after the Club World Cup was very short. I need a little more time. I really can’t wait to come back. I needed this time to disconnect, mentally and physically. I’m happy to be back.” He will not do any harm to the Madrid defense, he who brings his qualities but also his aggressiveness and his leadership.
The former Chelsea player also plays very big. He is at the end of his contract next June. For several months, the Spanish press has been saying that he will leave at the end of his lease. But this Friday, Marca indicates that this is not yet fully implemented. The Iberian publication explains the Rüdiger clan and Real Madrid spoke about a contract extension and even some figures a few months ago. But discussions were suspended by mutual agreement following the muscle injury of the German international, who played injured for a good part of last season. He thought it wasn’t the right time to talk about it. In the meantime, information continued to circulate concerning players targeted by the Madrilenians (Ibrahima Konaté, Dayot Upamecano, Marc Guehi).
Antonio Rüdiger wants to stay
But Real Madrid does not rule out extending Rüdiger’s lease, assures Marca this Friday. An option which is taken very seriously, especially since the 32-year-old defender wants to stay in Madrid. It’s his priority. He feels very good there, as does his family with whom he lives in the Finca district. At the club, he is very appreciated and listened to in the locker room. Which plays into his desire to continue. The technical staff also believes that it is “a key player, leader and role model for young players” thanks to “his performance, but also his leadership and his character.” A natural leader, he took young recruit Dean Huijsen under his wing, but also elements like Arda Güler.
In short, he is an essential piece and the Merengues believe that letting him go would perhaps be a mistake. But the residents of the Santiago-Bernabéu stadium will have to get active. Because Marca assures that he has many suitors. As in the last transfer windows, Saudi Arabia is still on its heels. In addition, Chelsea, whom he knows like the back of his hand, maintains contact with his agents and does not rule out bringing him back. But for now, Antonio Rüdiger’s priority is to continue his love affair with Real Madrid. A story which could therefore continue beyond the summer of 2026. It remains to be seen whether this extension would have an impact on the recruitment of a new central defender, since the club already has Dean Huijsen, Eder Militão and Raul Asencio.
