Real Madrid is preparing for a significant overhaul of its defensive line, a move deemed a top priority by the club`s management and staff. The primary goal is to secure at least one proven, experienced central defender whose contract expires at the end of the season, someone who is neither too young nor too old. Several names have caught the club`s attention: from Liverpool`s Ibrahima Konaté to Bayern Munich`s Dayot Upamecano, and Marc Guéhi of Crystal Palace. Should the market prove challenging, Real might consider an internal talent like Joan Martínez, although he still lacks the necessary experience at the highest levels.
Antonio Rüdiger`s future at the club seems to be decided. The German defender, who arrived in 2022 after successful stints with Chelsea, undoubtedly brought solidity and experience, contributing to several triumphs. However, in recent months, recurring physical issues have affected his performance. He has sustained five injuries since his arrival, the most recent on September 12th with a right quadriceps strain that will sideline him until December, causing him to miss approximately twenty matches.
The club`s management and coach Xabi Alonso have carefully evaluated the situation, considering both the player`s age (he will turn 33 in March) and his high salary. It is anticipated that Rüdiger will depart Real Madrid at the end of his contract. His frequent absences and lack of continuity, coupled with a salary difficult to justify for a backup role to Dean Huijsen and Éder Militão, have influenced this decision. The German defender will not rush his return to the field and is currently assessing his future options: a renewal with Real Madrid or a new professional challenge, with Saudi Arabia being among the potential destinations.
