Real Madrid News
Real Madrid defensive leader closer to renewing contract than leaving – report
Antonio Rudiger has only a few months left on his contract at Real Madrid and there has been no progress over an extension so far.
Doubts had grown over his future not so long ago, given his physical issues had kept him from reaching his best form. His uncertain situation had led to strong interest from Serie A giants Juventus.
But the 33-year-old, in recent weeks, has overcome those problems and showcased his best version again, especially in the big games against Manchester City.
Real Madrid want to keep Rudiger
But, according to journalist Matteo Moretto, Real Madrid want to do everything in their power to keep hold of Rudiger beyond this season.
The Merengues are fully aware of the value that he brings to the table with his experience and leadership and see him as their defensive lynchpin.
So, even though there were doubts about his fitness in the past, Los Blancos have been convinced by the 33-year-old centre-back’s recent form and intend to hold on to him for next season.
As such, Moretto reports that Rudiger is now closer to renewing his contract at Real Madrid than leaving the club as a free agent.
The German international’s priority has always been to stay at Real Madrid and with the club also on the same page now, a renewal appears to be on the horizon.
In case a financial agreement cannot be reached once negotiations actually begin, the former Chelsea ace could reassess his situation. But, for now, everything indicates that Rudiger will be offered a new contract by Real Madrid.
Real Madrid News
English legend backs Real Madrid star to become one of the all-time greats: ‘He’s got everything’
Jude Bellingham has spent the past fortnight as the most talked-about footballer in England, and the superlatives show no sign of slowing down.
A masterclass in the Nations League, a clutch of records and a second straight Player of the Year award has not gone unnoticed in English footballing media.
Now one of the English game’s most respected voices has added his name to the growing list of believers.
Lineker backs Bellingham
Asked whether Bellingham can go on to become one of the greatest players of all time, England legend Gary Lineker left no room for doubt.
“Yes, I’ve been saying it for a long time now. If he avoids serious injury or falls of the rails which he won’t I’m sure.
“He’s so good at football, he’s got everything. He’s a superstar and carries himself like a superstar,” he said (h/t Track Radio).
The verdict chimes comes in the midst of a wider chorus of acclaim in recent days. Roy Keane tipped him to become one of the greatest of all time after the Croatia rout, with Ian Wright and Micah Richards among others queuing up to praise him.
Backed by the numbers
The acclaim for Bellingham comes on the back of an extraordinary international break for Bellingham.
Against Croatia, Bellingham scored one and created three in the 7-0 win, becoming the first England player to record four goal involvements in a single game since David Platt in 1993.
He finished the window with one goal and four assists and was named UEFA’s Player of the Round.
That international excellence has carried over to the Bernabeu, where he has settled into a free number 10 role under Jose Mourinho and sits as the club’s joint-leading creator.
Bellingham was part of Real Madrid’s recent 1-0 win over Villarreal as well, and was unlucky not to register an assist when Vinicius Jr.’s goal was disallowed.
The Englishman will be looking to make an impact once again when Real Madrid take on AS Roma this Wednesday.
