Chelsea have now reportedly made their first move to re-sign Antonio Rudiger in what would be a sensational return for the experienced centre-back.
It’s not really surprising that the Blues are aiming for more experience. As impressive as their young team is, they are still exactly that: young. Enzo Maresca has already suffered the consequences of an inexperienced squad at times this season, with Chelsea too inconsistent to seriously challenge for the Premier League title but good enough to secure a top-four finish.
Against Wolverhampton Wanderers, that quality was on full display as goals from Malo Gusto, Joao Pedro and Pedro Neto wrapped up a comfortable 3-0 defeat. However, in the same week, Chelsea drew 2-2 against Qarabag in a match they should have won comfortably, once again highlighting their inconsistencies.
Adding an experienced, serial winner could be the missing piece of the puzzle, particularly within Maresca’s rearguard. The Blues have suffered a number of injuries and suspensions to their back four this season, leaving Maresca with no choice but to find internal solutions.
Against Qarabag, 19-year-old Jorrel Hato particularly struggled, raising the question of whether he is ready to be integrated into the current Chelsea squad. Maresca defended his decision to rotate midweek, but admitted young players need the opportunity to make mistakes.
The Italian told reporters: “They are talented, they are young. When they are young, you have to give them the opportunity to make mistakes.”
Still, the question of experience remains and as Rudiger’s contract continues to run out at Real Madrid, the Blues could have the ultimate solution to their problems awaiting them.
Rudiger makes Real Madrid decision as Chelsea call him
According to reports in Spain, Chelsea have made contact with Rudiger about a return to the club in 2026, with him set to become a free agent at the end of his contract with Real Madrid.
Alas, although Rudiger likes the west London club, his preference is to extend with Real Madrid and stay put. Leaving the ball in the Spanish court, the German has less than nine months to grant his wish.
If this contract doesn’t happen, then Chelsea should step in. Rudiger is a two-time Champions League winner these days and one of the most experienced defenders around at 32 years old. He has managed the Blues before and he would do it again without problem.
Having previously written in the Players’ Tribune that Chelsea will always be “in his heart”, a return to Stamford Bridge could be the perfect way for Rudiger to cap off an excellent career.
Whether Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso will let him go that easily is another question. The Spaniard has previously reiterated that the German is “very reliable” and losing that for nothing next summer is something the La Liga giants should want to avoid.
Chelsea ‘actively in talks’ to sign ‘very mature’ England international
