Rüdiger Responds About His Departure From Real Madrid and Announces a Likely Destination in 2026

"Return to Italy?In soccer, you never know, but right now I'm very, very happy at Real Madrid, I'm not wanting to leave soon. But in the future, who knows," Rüdiger stated at the press conference during this international break. The German defender is focused on the current season because he wants to win as many titles as possible.

This way, Rüdiger leaves his possible renewal with Real Madrid hanging in the air, because it should not be forgotten that he is 32 years old. His contract ends in 2026, and the club did not rule out a renewal, as long as his physical condition was adequate. But these statements suggest that he is not going to extend his contract.

Whatever happens, at Madrid they will respect and understand him, because the player is very dedicated and has been in pain for a long time. It wouldn't be strange if, in time, he wanted to leave the best team in the world to reduce the demands a bit and be able to rest more. But it is still too early to talk about his future.

A Change in Defense

Within the club, they are aware that sooner or later they will have to make several signings to carry out a generational change in defense. Alaba and Rüdiger are over 32 years old and are not going to play many more years at the elite level. Madrid is obliged to find their replacements in the market.

They are working intensely to find young talents who fit into the project, but they are in no hurry. In fact, they do not rule out not signing any center-back in the summer of 2025 and waiting until 2026, when Alaba and Rüdiger's contracts end. The situation they have now is better than the one they had last summer when they didn't sign anyone.

An Ambitious Project

Real Madrid has the best squad in the world, and there is no team that can come close. What is needed is to make some adjustments in defense and establish a playing scheme that benefits all the footballers. Meanwhile, Madrid is not going to perform as expected.

Practically all young defenders in the world of soccer would be delighted to have the opportunity to wear the Real Madrid jersey. They know it is the best club in the world and dream of having the chance to enjoy a career there.