Antonio Rudiger’s future at Real Madrid remains wide open as his contract enters its final months, with no clear sign yet that a renewal is imminent.
The defender’s deal expires at the end of the season, and from January he will be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with any club.
Despite his importance on the pitch, Los Blancos are, for now, standing firm and refusing to be rushed into a decision.
What is the reason?
According to AS, the hesitation has nothing to do with Rudiger’s performance or his commitment to the club. On both fronts, there are no doubts within the team.
It is known that when he is fit, the German remains one of the most reliable and dominant centre-backs in Europe.
The real concern lies whether his body can still consistently meet the physical demands of the elite-level football over the long term.
In recent months, Rudiger has pushed himself to the limit to help the team through a difficult period marked by injuries and a congested schedule.
He often played through discomfort, showing his trademark mentality and leadership.
Rudiger’s contract expires at the end of the season. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
While the injury problems that affected him earlier in the season now appear to be behind him, Real Madrid’s medical team and sporting management are analysing his physical condition closely before making any long-term commitment.
From the player’s side, Rudiger is also taking a reflective approach. He has made it clear that he wants to “listen to his body” before taking any decisive step about his future.
At 32, he knows that the next contract could be one of the last major deals of his career, and every factor will weigh heavily in his decision.
The Saudi interest
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia are once again watching the situation closely. They are ready to move the moment Rudiger shows any openness to leaving Europe.
If Rudiger says yes, a contract worth staggering millions of euros would be placed on the table without delay.
The situation leaves all scenarios on the table. Rudiger could still extend his stay if his body responds in the way the club expects.
But with January approaching and Saudi interest intensifying, the countdown on one of Real Madrid’s most important defensive pillars has well and truly begun.