Antonio Rudiger has revealed that in April he made his decision to join Real Madrid knocking out Barcelona, declaring it “real or nothing”.
The Germany international has signed a four-year deal with the Champions League winner after his contract with Chelsea ends and ends a five-year stay at Stamford Bridge.
He stepped up his fight in the blue caps in the 2020-21 Champions League, 2017-18 FA Cup and 2018-19 European League, playing over 200 games in all competitions.
Rudiger explained that Madrid first contacted his agent in September for a follow-up in April when he decided to join Carlo Ancelotti – adding that he rejected the progress of Los Blancos’ rival Barca.
“I first spoke to Ancelott in April and this contact was very important, and then I decided to play at this club,” he told a press conference on Monday.
“Others have contacted me, but I was convinced of what I wanted.
“Of course Barcelona became an offer. But I told my brother [and the agent] that this was Real or nothing.”
As Germany’s 53-fold frontier, Rudiger will have to fight for the starting lineup for Ancelott with rivals like Eder Militao and David Alaba, but the former Roma centre-back is ready to fight for his place.
“Ancelotti told me he wanted me to come to Real Madrid and that he trusted me and that he would depend on me. That’s enough for me,” added the 29-year-old.
“This is Madrid and you can’t guarantee anything, but I’m ready to fight to play.”
Rudiger received his number 22 jersey for next season before appearing in the media.
Isco released a shirt that left Madrid at the end of his contract.
