Real Madrid to Reassess Antonio Rüdiger’s Future Amid Injury Concerns and Contract Uncertainty
Real Madrid are taking a wait-and-see approach to Antonio Rüdiger’s contract situation, according to Spanish journalist Melchor Ruiz (COPE). The German international, who has been a key figure in Real Madrid’s defense since arriving from Chelsea in 2022, is under contract until the summer of 2026. However, his long-term future at the Santiago Bernabéu is now uncertain due to mounting fitness concerns and a recent decline in performance.
Injury Struggles & Surgery
Rüdiger spent a large portion of the 2024/25 season playing through pain, as he managed a persistent knee problem that ultimately required surgical intervention. His absence was felt during his nearly two-month spell on the sidelines, and although he returned in time for the FIFA Club World Cup, his performances there were described internally as “below expectations.” Club sources suggest he struggled with sharpness and physical mobility, raising red flags about his recovery and durability.
Early-Onset Osteoarthritis Raises Alarms
What’s particularly alarming for Real Madrid’s medical and technical staff is the diagnosis of early-onset knee osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition that can significantly impact a footballer’s explosiveness, stability, and career longevity. Though still 32, Rüdiger’s aggressive playing style—marked by high-intensity duels and physical commitment—could be harder to sustain with this condition.
Contract Talks Stalled — Extension Put on Hold
While there were early discussions during the previous season about extending Rüdiger’s contract by one additional year (potentially until 2027), those talks have now cooled. Real Madrid’s leadership, including head coach Xabi Alonso and the club’s board, will evaluate Rüdiger’s performance throughout the 2025/26 campaign before making any decision on a renewal.
This strategy reflects the club’s growing emphasis on sustainability and long-term squad planning. With several defenders aging and battling recurring injuries, the club is reluctant to commit resources without full confidence in a player’s future contributions.
Contrasts in the Dressing Room: Courtois Renewed, Others in Limbo
By contrast, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois—who also returned from a serious ACL injury—has already been rewarded with a contract extension until 2027, reaffirming the club’s trust in his value and resilience.
However, the futures of David Alaba and Dani Carvajal, both set to see their deals expire in 2026, remain in limbo. Alaba, who has also faced long-term injury issues and is one of the squad’s higher earners, is reportedly a candidate for departure as Real Madrid look to refresh their defensive options. Carvajal, though still vital in big matches, may also face reduced minutes if the club accelerates plans to bring in a younger right-back.
What It Means for the Squad
This cautious approach reflects Real Madrid’s broader transition under Xabi Alonso, who is keen on building a high-intensity, injury-resilient squad that can dominate across all competitions. With younger options like Éder Militão, Aurélien Tchouaméni (who has featured as a center-back), and possible new defensive signings on the radar, Rüdiger’s role could diminish if he fails to return to top form.
In short, Rüdiger’s future at the Bernabéu is now in his own hands. The 2025/26 season will be a defining one—either he proves he’s still an elite defender capable of anchoring Real Madrid’s backline, or the club may part ways when his current contract runs out.
