New Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger has revealed that he turned down a move to Barcelona this summer, explaining that for him it was Real Madrid or nothing were he to leave Chelsea.
The former Blue was unveiled at the Santigo Bernabeu at Monday lunchtime, where it was revealed that he will wear the no.22 for Los Blancos, recently vacated by now free agent Isco.
And, speaking at his unveiling, the German centre-back was quick to thank those close to him, before revealing that he had other offers, including one for the Blaugrana.
It’s a very special day for all of us, but especially for me’, he began. ‘I would like to thank my parents, because without them I could not be here. They have always supported me and that throughout my life has been very very important.’
💬 ¡Las primeras palabras de @ToniRuediger como madridista! #WelcomeRüdiger pic.twitter.com/EhbKrriVRZ
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) June 20, 2022
Rudiger also added that Barcelona showed an interest in signing him, but he told his brother, who is his agent and advisor, that it was ‘Real Madrid or nothing’.
What next for Los Blancos?
Having missed out on Kylian Mbappe, it is unclear what the plan for this summer now is for the European Champions.
They have already signed Aurelian Tchouameni, who is expected to be the future of their midfield alongside compatriot Eduardo Camavinga, while their attention for now is on a new contract for Vinicius Junior, which is expected to be wrapped up in the coming days.
Vinícius Jr. has agreed a new contract with Real Madrid until 2026 with a release clause worth over $1B, reports @FabrizioRomano 💰 pic.twitter.com/e3jmcUI46C
— B/R Football (@brfootball) June 15, 2022
Beyond that, they may decide to wait until next summer for further reinforcements.
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