Antonio Rudiger has denied that Chelsea’s financial sanctions had a role in his decision to leave the club at the end of the season.
The future of the defender was a major concern at Stamford Bridge entering into the season. His contract had only one year left on it, and there was no indication that it would be extended.
Antonio Rudiger stated that he was fully focused on his football instead of allowing his future to dominate the conversation. Chelsea, on the other hand, has been unable to give new contracts since Roman Abramovich was sanctioned, among other things.
The 29-year-old center-back will leave Stamford Bridge on a free transfer in the summer after five years with the club and has agreed to a four-year contract with Real Madrid. Losing Rudiger so cheaply would be a big setback for the Blues as they wanted him to be a part of their squad for years to come.
Toni Rüdiger: “There was a chance [staying at Chelsea], but I can tell you the sanctions were not the problem”. 🔵 #CFC
Rüdiger has already completed his medical tests two weeks ago and signed his contract until June 2026 as new Real Madrid player. Official announcement soon. pic.twitter.com/iwIzkh5u0k
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 15, 2022
Antonio Rudiger has won the Champions League, Europa League, FA Cup, Club World Cup, and UEFA Super Cup with Chelsea. He was happy about his achievement and the fact that his family enjoys life in London. However, because of other circumstances, he had to leave the club this summer.
Must Read: Three key reasons behind Antonio Rudiger’s move to Real Madrid
Rudiger, speaking after his side’s FA Cup final defeat to Liverpool on Saturday, stressed that the fines had no bearing on his decision to leave.
As reported by The Mirror, he said: “It’s been five years as normal with ups and downs, but with a lot of positive things. That’s why I’m even more frustrated because I wanted to have a different ending. As always, I am very, very thankful, to my family. I became a man here. My kids were born here and everything. London and especially Chelsea will always be special to me. There was a chance (of staying) but sanctions are not the problem.”
Chelsea has now lost the last three FA Cup finals, with Rudiger playing a part in each of them. It’s a frustrating and unsatisfactory record that contrasts with the Blues’ recent European and international achievements. Rudiger, meanwhile, seemed stumped when asked why Chelsea has struggled to win domestic finals.
Antonio Rudiger and Thiago Silva were a reliable center-back pairing for Chelsea. But now, they will be heading to fresh starts next season.
