The Spanish newspaper AS revealed that one of Real Madrid’s stars dreams of joining the Saudi League, which could hasten his departure from the club next summer and the end of his contractual relationship with Los Blancos.
The player in question is Antonio Rüdiger, whose contract with Real Madrid expires in the summer of 2026. Renewal negotiations between him and Florentino Pérez’s administration are currently at a standstill.
The German international aims to move to the Saudi League and conclude his career there, especially since it would offer him psychological comfort, as he would be in the holy land of Islam. Furthermore, he would receive a substantial salary upon joining a club in the Saudi League.
Real Madrid, for its part, has not yet made a final decision regarding renewing Rüdiger’s contract. There are doubts that the player can perform at his usual level due to his numerous injuries over the past two years and the significant strain on his knee. However, there is also great appreciation for everything he has contributed to the club since his arrival five years ago.
This matter is expected to be resolved within the next two months with a final decision from both parties. It’s worth noting that a friendly agreement was reached months ago between Real Madrid and Rüdiger’s agent to freeze renewal negotiations until the player fully recovers from his injury and his performance improves by mid-season.
Real Madrid plans to sign at least one defender next summer, given that David Alaba is certain to leave, and Rüdiger may follow suit. This is compounded by Éder Militão’s frequent injuries and the fact that only Dean Hoesen and Raúl Asensio are currently available.
