Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger spoke to the media ahead of his team’s game against Manchester City in the Champions League. He was asked about the game, to which he said: “I’ve been in many matches like this. I won the Champions League with Real Madrid. You work for these matches, these moments. We’ve played against City many times over the years, one of the best teams in Europe. If you want to win the Champions League, you have to play against City.”
Rüdiger on how he is feeling
“I’ve had a few minor issues, but that’s all in the past. If you look at the last few matches, I’m playing well and I feel good. I’m in good shape at this point in the season. I’ve worked hard these past few months to be fit, to be able to help the team and be useful.”
Rüdiger on the Diego Rico incident
“I’ve seen the slow-motion replays and it’s terrible. But if you watch the play itself… I’m not going to argue with him, but I didn’t kill him. We shouldn’t exaggerate the contact, because if I had really gone in with intent, he wouldn’t have gotten up. I spoke with him after the match. If you freeze a frame, it doesn’t tell the whole story. And it wasn’t a red card, I wasn’t sent off. I never intended to hurt him. I like to be tough when I play, but I have limits that I don’t cross. That’s why I think those statements are a bit exaggerated. We shouldn’t dwell on this.”
Rüdiger on his duel with Erling Haaland
“I don’t think much about these statistics, I don’t attach much importance to them, they’re just numbers. He won the battle against me in the group stage match. Players like Haaland are tough, and it’s a pleasure to face the best. I really enjoy that physical battle. Huijsen also had a very good game; I’m not alone in that defense. I’m really looking forward to this match.
“I’ve faced Haaland many times now. He’s a world-class player, very strong. I like these battles. As for my career, I think in my first season I knew that if I could beat him and keep up that challenge with Haaland, I would. But it’s fantastic when you face these players. He seems like a good guy.”
“For me, the most important thing is to be healthy. I feel good. The rest… I’m sure we’ll reach an agreement. Now is not the time to talk about it.”
Rüdiger on whether there have been conversations about it
“I feel good here. I notice the respect of the people and I appreciate it a lot. But sometimes you can’t think about the emotional side; I also have to think about the fact that I feel good and I have a job to do. But I love Real Madrid.”
Rüdiger on his role with young players
“I think I have an important role because we play with a lot of young players and my job is to help them. It’s my job to improve them as players. Young players also have to accept that they aren’t Sergio Ramos or Maldini when they start out.
“As a veteran, you have to take on that responsibility and take the pressure off the younger players. Look at those coming in, there are many of them and they’re doing a great job. Hats off to the coach for giving them that confidence.”
Rüdiger on the mentality at the club
“It’s not just about having that mentality tomorrow, it’s about always. We win together or we all lose. And we have to choose wisely.”
Rüdiger on another penalty shootout
“Hopefully it won’t come to that. I’m ready to take responsibility. If it’s my turn, of course, I’d take it again without hesitation.”
