Germany defender Antonio Rüdiger extends contract at Real Madrid

Germany international Antonio Rüdiger has extended his contract at Real Madrid for another year, the Spanish club said on Monday.

The centre-back, who is on World Cup duty with his national side, is set to remain at the club until at least June 30, 2027.

The 33-year-old has been playing for Real since 2022, winning the Champions League, La Liga and the Copa del Rey.

Rüdiger has lost his starting place for Germany, starting the side's World Cup campaign on the bench behind Bayern Munich's Jonathan Tah and Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck before coming on as a substitute in the 7-1 opening win over debutants Curaçao.

The 2014 World Cup winners face Ivory Coast on Saturday and Ecuador next Thursday as they seek to advance from Group E.

Last season, the former Chelsea star made just 26 appearances in all competitions due to several injuries in a disappointing trophyless season for the Madrid giants.

"Renewing my journey with Real Madrid is a proud moment, but more than anything, it’s a commitment to turning things around together with my teammates," Rüdiger wrote on Instagram.

"​We are going through a demanding phase. The setbacks have tested us, but this is exactly where I want to be. Some people may have written me off after my injuries, but that only motivated me even more. So, thank you for that."

Due to his aggressive style of play, Rüdiger has repeatedly faced public criticism in recent months.

"Anyone who knows me knows that I love challenges - I thrive on them. Even though things haven't been simple last season, my belief remains absolute," the Berlin-born player wrote.

The Spanish record title-holders will have a new manager next season, with José Mourinho set to return to the Santiago Bernabéu after previously managing the side between 2010 and 2013.