Antonio Rudiger has revealed that he rejected an approach from Barcelona after sealing his transfer to Real Madrid on Monday.
The German who joined the Spanish La Liga giants on a free transfer from Chelsea says that joining his new club was a “huge step” in his career.
The 29-year-old defender signed a four-year contract to move to the European champions. Before signing for Madrid, he was offered a lucrative new deal to remain at Stamford Bridge and had been in demand across Europe. But he has insisted he was never tempted by advances from Barca and other clubs.
Speaking to the press during his unveiling, Rudiger said;
“Yes, there was interest from Barcelona” (when quizzed about interest from other clubs).
“But I told my brother it was Real Madrid or nothing. What I can promise is that I will give everything for the club, and I want to win as many trophies as possible.
The talks over the transfer to Madrid began last September when his agent met with Real Madrid representatives. But a conversation with new manager Carlo Ancelotti in April convinced him to move to Santiago Bernabeu.
He also sought advice from former Chelsea teammates Thibaut Courtois, Eden Hazard, or compatriot Toni Kroos about the switch.
“That was the most important moment to speak with Mr Ancelotti and then I made also made my choice that I want to play for this club and under him,” said Rudiger.
“The conversation was that he wants me, he trusts in my abilities and that I can be very helpful for him and to the team. At my age, where I am right now, this is enough. And, at the end of the day, it’s Mr Ancelotti.
“You know, in Madrid, you will have competition and in general nothing is guaranteed, so you have to fight for your place and that is why I am here. I am ready to do that.”
During his unveiling, club president, Florentino Perez said representing Real would be the “biggest challenge” of the player’s career.
“This club attracts the best players in the world,” said Perez. “We are proud that this is the case, and today is another example as a world-class footballer is joining
