Real Madrid are reportedly preparing to part ways with German defender Antonio Rüdiger at the end of the 2025–26 season, following internal tensions and concerns over his fitness and form.
According to reports from Germany, the 32-year-old’s contract — which expires next summer — will not be renewed, marking the end of a four-year spell at the Santiago Bernabéu. Rüdiger joined Real Madrid on a free transfer from Chelsea in 2022 and has since made over 150 appearances, helping the club to eight major trophies, including La Liga and the Champions League.
Despite his key contributions in previous seasons, Rüdiger has reportedly fallen out of favour under new manager Xabi Alonso, who is said to have reservations about the defender’s consistency and recurring injury issues. Currently sidelined with a thigh injury sustained in September, Rüdiger is not expected to return to full fitness until November.
In his absence, Eder Militão and Dean Huijsen have emerged as Alonso’s preferred defensive pairing — a shift that appears to have further pushed Rüdiger down the pecking order.
Adding to the speculation over his future are reports of a training ground altercation earlier this year with England international Jude Bellingham. Spanish outlet El Chiringuito reported that tensions flared during a practice match after Rüdiger made a strong tackle on Bellingham, prompting heated words between the two before teammates intervened.
Sources also claim Rüdiger’s €10 million-per-year salary has become a sticking point for the club, especially as he is now viewed as a rotational option rather than a starter.
While there has been no official comment from Real Madrid, insiders suggest the club will allow Rüdiger to leave as a free agent next summer — potentially opening the door for a return to the Premier League or a move to Saudi Arabia, where several clubs have already expressed interest.
