Antonio Rüdiger ends Germany career after 10 years

Antonio Rüdiger has announced the end of his Germany career, bringing his international journey to a close after more than a decade with the Mannschaft. The decision leaves Germany without one of its most experienced central defenders as the national team continues its defensive rebuilding.

Rüdiger, 33, has decided that he will no longer respond to Germany call-ups. The choice had been developing since the last World Cup and reflects his wish to devote his energy to Real Madrid. He also considers this the right moment for a new generation to assume greater responsibility in the national defence.

Germany is now led by Jürgen Klopp and is expected to continue its reconstruction with younger defensive options. Rüdiger’s international career included numerous major campaigns, but he will now have no national-team commitments competing with his work at club level.

The defender is also entering a new phase at Real Madrid. Under José Mourinho, he has recovered an important place in the club’s sporting plans, with his experience and character valued as part of the team’s defensive leadership. Rüdiger intends to use the additional time away from international football to remain influential in Madrid and pursue more trophies with the Spanish club.