2025 has not been a happy year for German Antonio Rudiger so far, as the Real Madrid defender has only managed to participate in one match this season, against Real Oviedo on August 24, before a thigh muscle injury sidelined him since then.

The German defender is now in the final stages of his recovery, and he is expected to return to the team after the upcoming international break.

Rudiger said: "There is nothing I hate more than injury. There is little left to return. I needed this time because the preparation period after the Club World Cup was very short. I needed some extra rest. I am very excited to return soon. I needed this time to mentally and physically reset. I feel happy that I am about to return."

This injury is Rudiger's second long-term one in 2025, as he underwent surgery in late April after a partial tear of the lateral meniscus in his left knee, following months of playing despite the pain.

He added: "What happened was crazy, but I would have done the same thing if the situation repeated itself. I was in pain, but that's my way. I always want to help the team, and as long as I can run, why not? I would definitely do it again."

He concluded about Arda Güler: "He is my little brother. He went through tough times at first, and it was just a matter of time for him to adapt. I always told him: 'Your time will come sooner than you think, just be ready.' He came from Turkey, was slender, and needed to develop physically, and he has indeed done that. He is young, very professional, and there is no need to talk about his talent; it is obvious to everyone."