German-Sierra Leonean defender Antonio Rudiger set to leave Real Madrid after contract expiry

Antonio Rüdiger’s time at Real Madrid appears to be nearing its end, with reports from BILD suggesting that the German international will leave the club when his contract expires in June 2026.

The 32-year-old defender, who was born in Berlin to a Sierra Leonean mother, is expected to depart on a free transfer after three seasons at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Rüdiger’s situation has been complicated by a string of injury setbacks that have limited his availability this year.

He is currently sidelined with a rectus femoris injury in his left leg, sustained during training in September.

While the club has not officially disclosed a return date, multiple Spanish outlets report that he could be out for up to three months, potentially returning in December.

Given his recent injury history, Real Madrid’s technical staff are likely to take a cautious approach to his recovery.

According to the report, Real’s management are open to letting Rüdiger leave when his deal runs out, citing concerns over his long-term fitness.

The club has begun considering defensive reinforcements for next season, with several younger options already being scouted as part of a gradual squad rebuild.

Rüdiger, however, is said to be focused on a full recovery before making any decisions about his future.

He has reportedly told close associates that he does not intend to rush his return, preferring to regain fitness properly to prove his worth for his next contract — whether that is at Madrid or elsewhere.

Rüdiger joined Real Madrid in 2022 after a successful five-year spell at Chelsea, where he won the UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and Europa League.

His departure next summer would mark the end of another chapter in a distinguished career spanning over a decade at the highest level.