Antonio Rüdiger’s time at Real Madrid appears to be nearing its end, with reports in Germany claiming the club will release him when his contract expires in 2026 — just months after a heated training ground clash with team-mate Jude Bellingham.
The confrontation between the pair reportedly occurred late last season during a tense spell in which Madrid slipped behind in the La Liga title race and crashed out of the Champions League quarter-finals.
According to El Chiringuito, tempers flared after Rüdiger made a heavy challenge on Bellingham during a small-sided game.
The England midfielder responded angrily, sparking a scuffle that forced team-mates to step in and separate them.
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It was later reported that the disagreement was resolved privately, though it underscored rising tensions within the squad.
Now, German outlet BILD reports that Real Madrid have decided not to extend Rüdiger’s contract beyond next summer.
The 32-year-old defender joined Los Blancos on a free transfer from Chelsea in 2022 and has since made 157 appearances, winning eight major trophies.
Antonio Rudiger is likely to leave Real Madrid this summer
|GETTY
Despite his experience and leadership, new manager Xabi Alonso is said to have doubts over his consistency and injury record.
Rüdiger has been sidelined since September with a thigh injury and is not expected to return until November.
In his absence, Eder Militão and Dean Huijsen have formed a solid partnership at the back, limiting his chances of regaining a starting place.
Antonio Rudiger is unlikely to get much game time under Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso
|GETTY
Another factor in Madrid’s decision appears to be financial.
Rüdiger is among the club’s top earners, taking home more than €10 million per season.
With Alonso viewing him as a backup option, the cost of retaining him is seen as excessive.
The German international’s decline in status represents a sharp turnaround for a player once considered indispensable.
Rüdiger was a key figure in Madrid’s defensive line over the past three seasons, his aggression and aerial strength helping the club to La Liga and Champions League titles.
However, a series of minor injuries and questions about discipline have begun to erode his standing.
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Rüdiger’s career has spanned some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Chelsea, Roma, and Stuttgart, alongside 81 caps for Germany.
His future beyond Madrid remains uncertain, though a return to the Premier League or a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia has been widely speculated.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid continue their strong start under Alonso, leading La Liga after seven wins from eight matches and claiming back-to-back victories in the Champions League group stage.
They face Getafe this weekend before hosting Juventus in midweek.