German defender Antonio Rüdiger, who joined Real Madrid from Chelsea, stated the Champions League winner’s archrival Barcelona confirmed curiosity in signing him however it was “Madrid or nothing”
German defender Antonio Rüdiger, who joined Real Madrid from Chelsea, stated the Champions League winner’s archrival Barcelona confirmed curiosity in signing him however it was “Madrid or nothing”
While he was nonetheless with Chelsea, Antonio Rüdiger skilled first-hand what it felt prefer to be a Real Madrid participant.
He was on the dropping finish as Madrid pulled off considered one of its beautiful Champions League comebacks that culminated with its record-extending 14th European title this season.
Rüdiger stated his expertise on the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in that quarterfinal loss made his choice to hitch the Spanish powerhouse simpler.
“The match I played with Chelsea at the Bernabéu was special, so intense,” the central defender said during his official presentation at Madrid on Monday.
Incredible feeling
“It was my first time playing at the Santiago Bernabéu,” he said. “It was an incredible feeling for me. After the third goal (for Chelsea), there was still a really positive atmosphere. I took away amazing feelings and having the chance to play for a club like this is unbelievable.”
Madrid went down 3-0 in that second leg of the quarterfinals against Chelsea, with Rüdiger scoring one of the goals, but the hosts rallied and still advanced.
“I simply wouldn’t know how to describe what Real Madrid achieved in the Champions League this year,” Rüdiger said. “It was unbelievable. Obviously, by the time the final came around I knew I was going to play for Real Madrid. I was right behind them and I was thrilled when they won it. Next year, I want to keep competing for more titles.”
Barcelona confirmed curiosity
The 29-year-old Rüdiger stated Madrid’s archrival Barcelona confirmed curiosity in signing him however it was “Madrid or nothing.” “The first contact between Real Madrid and my agent came in September last year,” he said. “The second time I spoke to (coach Carlo) Ancelotti himself was in April. My contact with him was the most important moment and that’s when I made the decision to join this club. He told me he wanted me here, he trusted me, and that I could really help the team.”
Madrid signed a four-year contract with the Germany worldwide, who helped Chelsea win titles within the Champions League, Europa League, Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup and FA Cup. He scored 5 objectives in 54 matches with Chelsea final season, each a file for him with the membership.
Rüdiger made his Bundesliga debut with Stuttgart as an 18-year-old earlier than becoming a member of Roma in 2015 and ultimately Chelsea in 2017.
Ronaldo, Pepe his idols
Rüdiger stated his idols at Madrid embrace former Brazil nice Ronaldo and fellow central defender Pepe.
“(Pepe) has attributes I really like. And off the pitch, from what I’ve seen, he’s a superb man, however on the pitch he’s a monster,” Rüdiger said.
Madrid signed defender David Alaba last year to help make up for the absence of veteran Sergio Ramos, who joined Paris Saint-Germain. Alaba started in the Champions League final against Liverpool alongside Éder Militão. Nacho Fernández has also played in central defense when needed.
Source: www.thehindu.com
