Antonio Rudiger has revealed he is ‘very happy’ with his decision to make the move from Chelsea to Real Madrid.
The German defender signed for the Blues from Roma in the summer of 2017 and made a total of 203 appearances across all competitions in five seasons at Stamford Bridge.
However he is now set to leave the club upon the expiration of his contract at Chelsea, and will play for Madrid in La Liga from the start of next season.
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Rudiger had a fairly quiet impact on the side in his opening couple of seasons at the Blues, but he will most likely be remembered at the club for his performances in their Champions League winning run in the 2020/21 season.
He revealed in an interview with Marca that he is pleased with the decision to move from London to Madrid.
Rudiger said: “I am definitely very happy with the step I have taken.”
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He is currently on international duty with Germany for their Nations League fixtures, with his country recently drawing 1-1 against England courtesy of a late penalty from Harry Kane.
They currently sit third in the table and one spot above the Three Lions, with Italy leading the group and Hungary following close behind in second.
Rudiger may not be the only defensive departure at Chelsea this summer, with the Blues looking to sign new reinforcements in the transfer window.
Andreas Christensen has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona, alongside club captain and legend Cesar Azpilicueta and left-back Marcos Alonso.
Jules Kounde seems set to join the Blues this summer from Spanish side Sevilla, having not been able to do so last year despite agreeing personal terms.
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There is a chance he could be the club’s first signing in their new era, with Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital recently completing their takeover.
Wesley Fofana, who currently plays for fellow Premier League side Leicester City, is another potential target for Chelsea, although Manchester United are also said to be monitoring the 21-year-old centre-back this summer.
However he signed a two-year extension at the Foxes in March and revealed: “I'm really happy to sign a new contract. It shows the Club have confidence in me offering me a contract to 2027. I’m really happy to be here. It’s my Club, I love the fans, so I’m really happy and really looking forward to being back playing.
“I love everything about the Club. I love the city, I love the fans. It’s a family which is what I love the most. Everyone is close and gets on well. We also have a great team and are continuing to progress, with a desire to win more trophies. That’s why I have committed my future to the Club until 2027. I want to achieve more with the Club. There is a lot of talent here and still a lot more we can do together.”
Featured Image Credit: PA Images / AlamyTopics: Antonio Rudiger, Chelsea, Real Madrid