The truth behind Madrid-Barcelona-Chelsea battle for Rudiger

FT Desk

• Updated: 23 May 2023 08:55 CDT
• 3 min read

Antonio Rudiger has revealed the truth behind the three-way summer battle between Real Madrid, Barcelona and former club Chelsea for his signature this season.

Rudiger signed for Real Madrid on a free transfer in the close season after deciding not to renew his contract at Chelsea.

He penned a four-year contract with the European and Spanish champions, with the transfer being announced in June.

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There was numerous clubs interested in signing Rudiger, but it was Real Madrid and Barcelona who were the most desperate to take him away from Chelsea.

For the Germany centre-back, though, only Madrid turned his head from London.

What did Rudiger say?

"I was really happy at Chelsea, then Real Madrid called to sign me and I said ‘wow!’

“For me, it was only Chelsea or Real", Rudiger told AS.

"Barcelona approached me, yes. But for me it was never a possibility, I never thought of accepting Barça.”

Rudiger has played 17 games for Real Madrid since arriving, scoring two goals.

Madrid find themselves second in La Liga behind Barcelona, although unlike the Catalans they have qualified for the last-16 of the Champions League.

He had signed for Chelsea in 2017 and, after an average first three seasons at the club, he was outstanding following the arrival of Thomas Tuchel in January 2020.

He played a key role in Chelsea winning the Champions League last year and became one of the best defenders in the Premier League.

He will play at the World Cup later this month as a key player for Germany national team.