Antonio Rüdiger has found himself at the center of a new controversy following Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey match against Real Sociedad. However, those close to him have strongly denied the allegations, insisting that the player did not make any statement in support of Athletic Club de Bilbao upon entering the dressing room at Anoeta Stadium.
According to sources close to the footballer, Rüdiger never entered the opposing team’s locker room, nor did he have any altercation with Real Sociedad players.
Rüdiger and the False Controversy After the Match
Rumors suggested that Rüdiger, after some tense exchanges with Real Sociedad players, had walked into the dressing room area at Anoeta shouting:
“Long live Athletic Club de Bilbao!”
However, sources close to the German defender have completely denied these claims, calling them false and exaggerated. They insist that Rüdiger’s behavior after the match was completely calm, as evidenced by video footage captured by the cameras.
The 1-0 victory for Real Madrid was not without tension, particularly due to chants directed at Asencio, which prompted Vinícius Jr. to intervene with the referee. Additionally, TV cameras caught a Real Sociedad fan making racist monkey gestures toward Vinícius, and thanks to the recorded footage, it is expected that the culprit will be identified and sanctioned accordingly.
Rüdiger’s Admiration for San Mamés
It is no secret that Rüdiger has admiration for Athletic Club de Bilbao. In the past, the German center-back has spoken highly of San Mamés and its electric atmosphere, stating in an interview that it is one of the most impressive stadiums in LaLiga.
This admiration has led some to speculate that he may have a soft spot for Athletic Club, but at no point has Rüdiger ever declared himself a fan of the Bilbao team.
Within Real Madrid, Rüdiger has earned the trust of Carlo Ancelotti and the respect of the fans thanks to his relentless work ethic and commitment on the pitch. His aggressive playing style and charismatic personality have made him a standout figure in the Madrid dressing room. However, those close to him insist that he made no provocative gestures following Madrid’s victory at Anoeta.
Rüdiger, Key to Real Madrid’s Victory
Controversies aside, Rüdiger delivered a top-class performance against Real Sociedad. The German defender was a rock at the back, helping Real Madrid secure a clean sheet and take a crucial step toward the Copa del Rey final.
His understanding with the rest of the Madrid defense, combined with his ability to anticipate opposition forwards, played a decisive role in neutralizing Real Sociedad’s attack.
Now, Real Madrid will return to the Santiago Bernabéu with a confidence boost from their first-leg victory, knowing they are one step away from the final in Seville. As for Rüdiger, he remains fully focused on his football and has no interest in fueling unnecessary controversies. Those close to him emphasize that his only priority is achieving success on the pitch.