Antonio Rüdiger set to stay at Real Madrid amid backing from Jones
Jermaine Jones has defended Antonio Rüdiger following recent criticism, while the defender is reportedly on the verge of signing a new contract with Real Madrid.
The future of Antonio Rüdiger at Real Madrid appears to be settled. Reports indicate that the 33-year-old centre-back has already signed a one-year extension, despite his current deal expiring at the end of the month. Following the successful re-election of Florentino Perez, the formal announcement is expected to be a formality.
This extension is part of a broader shake-up at the club as they reshape the squad for next season. Further transfer activity is imminent, with Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate and Inter Milan's Denzel Dumfries expected to join the Bernabéu ranks. Additionally, José Mourinho is set to return to the dugout, moving from Benfica to lead the club toward silverware.
Amidst the transfer talk, Rüdiger has received strong public backing from former international Jermaine Jones. Addressing recent criticism regarding Rüdiger's playing style and demeanor, Jones argued that the defender is being judged unfairly based on isolated incidents.
If he were an arsehole, people wouldn't warm to him. Just like with me back then, folks keep rubbing salt into Rüdiger's wounds. It's unfair. He deserves fair treatment. Jermaine Jones
Jones emphasized that Rüdiger remains an essential player for both the club and his national team, dismissing the negative media portrayals as inaccurate and unrepresentative of the player's true character.