Rudiger grateful to ex-Chelsea manager for helping achieve Real Madrid dream: ‘Without him, it wouldn’t have been possible’

Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger is all set to return to action after being out injured since very early in the season.

The 32-year-old German international has been working with the group for the past week and will be included in the squad to face Girona later tonight.

Rudiger reflects on injury ordeal

In a YouTube interview with Florian Malburg, the Real Madrid player reflected on his time out through injury and how it was for him to disconnect for a bit.

“It’s been a long time now, and I’m recovered. I’ve taken advantage of this time to disconnect and not be in the spotlight, which is also good sometimes, because unfortunately everything I do goes viral,” noted the German international.

“There are so many matches, so it’s nice when no one is talking about Rudiger and I can spend some time with my family, my children.”

Age takes its toll on footballers and the German defender spoke about how his body is changing, saying:

“I’ve been doing this for a long time, but I’m eager to get back. I know my body very well, and as you get older, things aren’t the same as before.

“I need to feel good to be able to play, and luckily I am now. I don’t have as much ego as people might think; I’m open to criticism.”

On his career

Rudiger credits Tuchel for his success. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Rudiger has played under some great coaches throughout his career, but he singled one Thomas Tuchel, in particular, crediting the former Chelsea boss for his success.

“Tuchel is the best coach I’ve ever had; he has absolutely everything. He changed everything at Chelsea. He’s very honest. He was the coach who paved the way for me to succeed and play for Real Madrid today,” said Rudiger.

“Without him, it wouldn’t have been possible. Because that’s my ultimate goal: to play for Real Madrid.”

Rudiger’s future at Real Madrid is uncertain, given his contract expires at the end of the season, with Saudi Arabia following his situation closely.

During the interview, he spoke about the possibility of a move to Saudi, where his former Chelsea teammate N’Golo Kante is playing.

“Kante is back in the French national team. Just because someone goes to play in Saudi Arabia doesn’t mean they’re going to be a worse footballer,” he noted.

After living in cities such as Madrid, Rome, and London, Rudiger chose the best of them all and the one where he wishes to live, saying:

“Of all the cities I’ve lived in, I’d choose Madrid. I feel very comfortable here. Rome and London are also great cities, but I would definitely choose Madrid.”

Source: AS