Defender Rüdiger ‘not done here’ as he signs 1-year contract extension at Real Madrid

By: The Associated Press Posted: 4:38 AM CDT Tuesday, Jun. 16, 2026 Last Modified: 5:50 AM CDT Tuesday, Jun. 16, 2026

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MADRID (AP) — Antonio Rüdiger is “not done” at Real Madrid as the German defender stays for another season, signing a one-year contract extension while at the World Cup and pledging his support for the team's rebuild under Jose Mourinho.

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Rüdiger was at the end of the four-year contract he signed when he joined Madrid from Chelsea in 2022 and reportedly had rival offers from Saudi Arabia.

“I am not done here,” he wrote on social media. “Renewing my journey with Real Madrid is a proud moment, but more than anything, it’s a commitment to turning things around together with my teammates.”

FILE - Real Madrid's Antonio Rudiger, right, congratulates Federico Valverde after scoring during a Spanish La Liga soccer match between Real Madrid and Elche CF, in Madrid, March 14, 2026. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez, File)

The 33-year-old German won the Spanish league and Champions League at Madrid in 2024. Back-to-back seasons without a trophy mean Madrid is under pressure to improve next season as Mourinho returns as coach.

Rüdiger played 26 games in all competitions for Madrid last season as injuries limited his availability.

“We are going through a demanding phase. The setbacks have tested us, but this is exactly where I want to be,” he said. “Some people may have written me off after my injuries but that only motivated me even more. So, thank you for that.”

The announcement of Rüdiger’s new deal came a day after Madrid signed left back Marc Cucurella from Chelsea.

Rüdiger is with Germany at the World Cup and came off the bench in the opening 7-1 win over Curaçao as Jonathan Tah and Nico Schlotterbeck started in the center of the German defense.