Defender Antonio Rudiger is set to sign a one-year contract extension at Real Madrid.The Athletic reported on May 19 the 33-year-old was in discussions with Madrid over extending his deal, which is due to expire this summer, and following crucial talks in recent days, he is set to sign a renewal through to 2027, according to sources briefed on the situation.The Madrid squad had expected Rudiger to continue at the club next season, when Jose Mourinho is poised to return to the Bernabeu as head coach.The centre-back’s anticipated renewal through to 2027 is consistent with Madrid’s policy of offering players over 30 only a one-year extension.Rudiger joined Madrid from Chelsea on a free transfer in the summer of 2022 and he has made 182 appearances for the club, winning eight trophies including La Liga and the Champions League in 2023-24.His 2025-26 campaign was disrupted by injuries to his hamstring and knee, limiting him to 26 appearances across all competitions, as Madrid finished without silverware for a second successive season.
Rudiger has made 82 senior appearances for Germany and last week was named in their 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup.Madrid have already confirmed that experienced defenders David Alaba and Dani Carvajal will depart the club following the conclusion of their contracts this summer.‘Rudiger future key in the dressing room and financially’Madrid had intended to have this case resolved some time ago and it is considered a key decision in the making of next season’s squad.Even if Rudiger has had some avoidable moments, the German is highlighted internally as one of the few leaders in a dressing room in desperate need of authority. Dean Huijsen and Endrick are two of the young players who can attest to the positive impact of his seniority, with the Brazilian saying as much in January 2025.On a footballing level, Rudiger’s prime can be considered to have passed, largely because he sacrificed himself for the needs of the team. The 33-year-old spent months last season taking painkillers even for training. And yet his contribution for a fair number of games will surely be important next season.The financial aspect should not be forgotten either. With Alaba leaving the club as free agent after not having a renewal offer, Eder Militao continually hit by injuries and Raul Asencio’s dip in form, the club is planning to reinforce the position. Rudiger’s departure would have led to the need for a major investment at a time when Madrid are looking to strengthen the squad while at the same time maintaining a healthy balance sheet.
