Antonio Rüdiger appears to be on the verge of extending his contract with Spanish giants Real Madrid. Reports suggest the 33-year-old defender will sign a one-year extension, keeping him at the club until 2027.
Rüdiger’s current contract is set to expire in the summer. However, a positive decision in favor of Real Madrid has reportedly been made before the World Cup, according to The Athletic and the German publication Bild.
This anticipated extension aligns with Real Madrid’s policy for players over 30, who are typically offered one-year contracts. Rüdiger was reportedly initially hoping for a two-year extension.
The 82-time international joined Real Madrid from Chelsea in 2022. With Madrid, the center-back has celebrated victories in the Club World Cup, Champions League, two La Liga titles, and the Copa del Rey. However, this past season saw the club finish without major trophies. Speculation is rife that incoming coach José Mourinho, who is rumored to be returning to Real Madrid, aims to steer Kylian Mbappé, Rüdiger, and the team back to winning ways. Mourinho is also reportedly a keen admirer of Rüdiger.
Antonio Rüdiger Likely Ranked Third-Choice Center-Back for the World Cup
Rüdiger is included in Germany’s 26-man World Cup squad, which convenes for pre-tournament preparations on Wednesday in Herzogenaurach. However, he has recently lost his starting position as the defensive linchpin in the national team. Bundestrainer Julian Nagelsmann stated during the March international matches that the center-back pairing is a crucial element that «should not be constantly changed,» opting instead for Jonathan Tah and Nico Schlotterbeck. Despite this, Nagelsmann indicated that Rüdiger will still play a «significant role» at the World Cup, even if he comes on as a substitute, suggesting he is currently considered the third-choice center-back.