Real Madrid could break key renewal policy to reward defensive stalwart with new contract | OneFootball

Real Madrid defensive stalwart Antonio Rudiger is set to bring an end to 2024 as possibly the best calendar year of his career.

Over the past 365 days, the German international has been one of the cornerstones of Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid, playing a crucial role in securing the five titles that the club has won.

Rudiger has participated in 45 full matches out of 50 played by Los Blancos this year, and has stepped up as one of the leaders of the team on and off the pitch.

New contract on the horizon?

As such, MARCA reports that Real Madrid could soon initiate talks over a new contract for Antonio Rudiger, which might even involve them breaking a key policy in place.

Rudiger, 31, has a contract which runs until the summer of 2026, meaning he will enter the final year of his deal next year – something that Los Blancos are looking to avoid, especially amid interest from Saudi Arabia.

A true stalwart for Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

At the moment, the German has no thoughts of leaving Real Madrid, but both parties must have a conversation to lay the groundwork for the future.

Real Madrid’s policy in these matters is usually clear: contract extensions are negotiated when a player enters the final year of their deal and players over 30 are offered only a year-long extensions.

However, in the case of Rudiger, the Spanish capital club could be prepared to break that rule and offer him a contract that will run either until 2027 or even 2028.

The latter would mean a two-year renewal, going against the club’s policy, but considering Rudiger’s contributions and role in the team, Real Madrid are not ruling that option out.

Teammates, coaching staff, and executives all celebrate his presence at the club and an extension might not be very far.