June 20, (THEWILL) – Real Madrid’s newest defender, Antonio Rudiger, has confessed that he turned down Barcelona’s interest because he only wanted to play for Real Madrid.
Rudiger made this known at his formal introduction to the club on Monday, revealing that he chose to let his Chelsea contract expire in order to join Real on a free transfer. Speaking to those gathered at the ceremony, he said: “It is a very special day. I would like to thank my parents, because without them I could not be here. They have always supported me in my life.
“I also want to thank the president for giving me the opportunity to play for this club. And I want to thank the Madrid fans for their welcome, I can promise that I will give it my all. I want to win all the titles we can. Hala Madrid and nothing more.”
Rudiger, who will wear the number 22 shirt at Real, later admitted in his press conference that he had the opportunity to join Barcelona, but that he turned them down quickly: “There was interest from Barcelona, but I told my agent that it was Madrid or nothing.”
Rudiger went on to say about his meeting with Real: “The first time they contacted my agent was in September of last year. The second time, in April, when I spoke with [Carlo] Ancelotti. This was the most important moment as it was at this moment that I decided to play for Madrid.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
