Antonio Rudiger is set to make his first World Cup start after Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann confirmed the Real Madrid defender is ready to lead the backline following Nico Schlotterbeck’s injury.
Germany have already secured top spot in their World Cup group, nad yet, Nagelsmann has decided to hand Rudiger an important opportunity to build rhythm ahead of the knockout rounds.
The experienced centre-back has endured an injury-disrupted campaign with Real Madrid, making every minute on the pitch increasingly valuable as the tournament enters its decisive phase.
Rudiger to be given major opportunity
Germany began the World Cup with Jonathan Tah and Nico Schlotterbeck as their preferred central defensive pairing, leaving Rudiger among the substitutes despite his experience at the highest level.
Rudiger will start against Ecuador. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
However, Schlotterbeck’s injury has forced Nagelsmann into reshuffling his defence, opening the door for the Real Madrid star to reclaim his place in the starting lineup.
Speaking ahead of Germany’s final group-stage fixture against Ecuador, the national team coach expressed complete confidence in Rudiger’s physical condition.
“His knee isn’t bothering him at all, he feels great physically and I think he played very well when he came on. I expect the same tomorrow,” said Nagelsmann, as per Mundo Deportivo.
The comments will be encouraging for both Germany and Real Madrid, particularly after Rudiger spent much of the season managing recurring fitness concerns.
Nagelsmann pleased with Rudiger’s recovery
Rudiger is now completely fit. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Although Germany have already guaranteed first place in their group, Nagelsmann believes there is still plenty to gain from giving Rudiger another full match before the knockout rounds begin.
The manager explained that the defender has steadily improved every time he has stepped onto the pitch during the tournament.
“He has made great progress in terms of what we expected of him. He has made a contribution whenever he’s come on and, as I say, he’s in great physical shape,” he insisted.
With Germany expected to rotate parts of their squad, Rudiger’s inclusion will be a win-win situation not just of the national team but also for the defender as well as Real Madrid.
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