Antonio Rüdiger, a key defender for Real Madrid, has made it clear that facing off against the “super striker” Erling Haaland in the Champions League quarterfinals against Manchester City is a personal mission for him. Rüdiger is determined to seek revenge for City eliminating them from last season’s competition. While Rüdiger managed to keep Haaland at bay in last year’s semifinal first leg with a 1-1 draw at the Bernabéu, he did not start in the return leg in Manchester, where City cruised to a comfortable 4-0 victory. Rüdiger emphasized the importance of controlling dangerous players like Haaland, along with Phil Foden and Kevin De Bruyne.
Madrid and City are set to clash for the fifth time in the Champions League in the last decade. The LaLiga giants emerged victorious in the 2016 semifinals, while City advanced in the 2020 round of 16. Madrid managed to eliminate City in the 2022 semifinals after extra time, only to be knocked out by them in last season’s encounter. Rüdiger made it clear that Madrid will not simply sit back and watch City dominate possession but are prepared to defend when necessary.
Rüdiger also commended the impact of Jude Bellingham in the Madrid dressing room, praising his four Champions League goals in six games this campaign. Despite initially being unsure about Bellingham, Rüdiger acknowledged the young midfielder’s leadership qualities and professionalism, expressing hope for his continued success and good health.
Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted that his team lacked courage and personality in last season’s second leg against City. He emphasized the importance of quality players making a difference on the pitch and the necessity of a clear and convincing strategy. Ancelotti also mentioned that there wouldn’t be any surprises in his team selection, highlighting the changes in the team’s characteristics this season with a different approach in the attack without a traditional center forward.
As Real Madrid prepares to take on Manchester City in the Champions League quarterfinals, Antonio Rüdiger stands out as a key player with a personal mission to contain the threat posed by Erling Haaland. The battle between Madrid and City promises to be intense, with both teams aiming for victory in this high-stakes encounter.