Rudiger regrets controversial moment against Atletico as Bellingham and Courtois dream Club World Cup trophy

Football star Antonio Rudiger has reflected on two major incidents that drew attention during Real Madrid’s 2024/25 season.

The German defender, known for his intensity, found himself in the spotlight during crucial matches — first in the UEFA Champions League against Atletico Madrid and later in the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona.

The first controversy came after Real Madrid defeated Atlético Madrid in the round of 16 of the Champions League. Following the win, Rudiger made a gesture towards the home fans that many saw as disrespectful.

Despite fears of a suspension, UEFA imposed a €40,000 fine and a one-match ban that was suspended for a year. This allowed the defender to play in the quarter-finals against Arsenal.

Speaking to Amazon Prime, Rudiger explained what led to his actions that night, stating,

“We played against Atletico, and they booed us. Insults and all that. We only went there because our fans were higher up, in that area. That’s why I just wanted to have a little fun; that’s also part of the game.”

However, in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, things took a worse turn. After an emotional match, Rudiger threw an object at the referee.

The RFEF handed him a six-match ban, citing “mild violence towards the referees” under article 101 of the Disciplinary Code. This suspension means he will miss several domestic games at the start of the next campaign.

In the same interview, Rudiger also shared his thoughts on Toni Kroos’ retirement and how it impacted the team.

“Toni was everything to us: the director, the one who set the tone. With him, we had more control. There is no need to talk about the player; he was the best in Germany.”

He continued, “When you have players like Kroos, Vinicius or Mbappe, they don’t need to drop back because they know the ball will come. Toni gave us that assurance. Replacing him won’t be easy.”

Meanwhile, as Real Madrid prepares for the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, key players Jude Bellingham and Thibaut Courtois have shared their thoughts on what the competition means for the club and how they plan to approach it.

The tournament begins for Los Blancos on June 18, against Al Hilal in Miami. It will be the first test for Xabi Alonso’s side this summer and a chance for fans to get a look at new signings Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold in action.

Speaking ahead of the contest, both Bellingham and Courtois made it clear that Madrid are not taking it lightly.

Bellingham, who continues to grow in importance at the club, spoke to DAZN about what’s at stake in this new edition of the Club World Cup.

For the young Englishman, the tournament is more than just a title; it is a chance to add something new to Real Madrid’s already decorated history.

“All our matches will be brilliant. We have got fans across the world, and any trophy matters.

“The other 31 teams are here because they have earned it in their regions, so it’s not something to take lightly,” Bellingham said.

“It’s an opportunity to win another title and a new competition that we don’t take lightly.

“It’s history and, as I said before, there aren’t many things that can be done at this club that haven’t been done before, so it’s nice to have a new opportunity.”

Courtois also gave his take on the upcoming challenge. The Belgian keeper highlighted the constant demand for success at a club like Real Madrid and how it fuels the players’ hunger.

“We always go into tournaments to win, that’s the Real Madrid way,” Courtois said. “There’s pressure, of course, but it’s the kind that drives you.

“Winning trophies gives you adrenaline, and once you’ve tasted it, you want to keep going.”

Courtois added that this expectation is part of what keeps Madrid at the top year after year: “You need to win every season, and that’s why we give everything. That’s what’s expected from every Real Madrid player.”