The Germany international defender has addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future at Stamford Bridge
Antonio Rudiger has admitted that he is “honoured” by Bayern Munich’s reported interest in him, but also claims that he still “feels good” at Chelsea.
Goal recently reported that Bayern have opened preliminary talks with Rudiger’s representatives over a possible transfer in 2022.
The 28-year-old’s current deal at Chelsea is due to expire next June, and he will be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with Bayern in January if he chooses, but is keeping his cards close to his chest with regards to his future.
What has been said?
Although Rudiger is flattered by the links with Bayern, he also insists that he is quite content at Stamford Bridge and is not yet thinking about his next move.
“Of course, I’m honoured by [Bayern’s interest] and it proves that I’ve been doing things right,” said Rudiger at a press conference. “But I won’t let myself become distracted.
“I have an obligation to my club to perform well. I have to prove myself in every game and not let myself be distracted by rumours.
“I feel good at Chelsea where I am now, so that suits me.”
What have Bayern said about Rudiger?
Bayern coach Julian Nagelsmann has praised Rudiger for his “aggressiveness” while describing him as a “decisive” player, but the club’s sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic has played down any suggestion of his impending arrival at Allianz Arena.
“It’s not okay when we talk about players who are with other clubs,” Salihamidzic told DAZN last month.
“We are really well filled in the centre-back position. We have strengthened ourselves very well and brought in a top player in Dayot Upamecano, Lucas Hernandez is here, Tanguy Nianzou is there, Benjamin Pavard can also play inside – we really are very, very well staffed.”
How has Rudiger performed for Chelsea this season?
Rudiger has attracted the attention of Bayern, and other top clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, after a stellar start to the 2021-22 campaign at Chelsea, who are sitting top of the Premier League after seven games.
The towering defender has been ever-present for Thomas Tuchel’s side, scoring once, and will likely feature again when the Blues take on Brentford after the international break.
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