The name Antonio Rudiger once again emerges as a key figure in Germany’s national team squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, announced on Tuesday (2 June 2026).
The experienced centre-back, who currently plays for Real Madrid, has been included in the official list of players set to represent Die Mannschaft in the world’s most prestigious football tournament.
According to the released squad list, Antonio Rudiger stands among the senior defenders trusted to bolster Germany’s backline alongside Jonathan Tah, Nico Schlotterbeck, Waldemar Anton, David Raum, Joshua Kimmich, Nathaniel Brown, Malick Thiaw, and other defensive players.
Rudiger’s presence is expected to bring calmness and invaluable experience to the German team, which blends veteran figures with young talents for the 2026 World Cup campaign.
Antonio Rudiger was born in Berlin, Germany, on 3 March 1993.
The 33-year-old defender stands 1.90 metres tall and plays primarily as a central defender.
In addition to holding German nationality, Rudiger also has Sierra Leonean heritage.
He is widely recognised for his physical strength, aerial prowess, and strong leadership on the pitch.
According to Transfermarkt data updated on 16 March 2026, Antonio Rudiger’s market value is estimated at 156.43 billion rupiah.
His highest market value was recorded at 869.08 billion rupiah on 13 June 2019.
Rudiger currently represents Spanish giants Real Madrid, having previously played for VfB Stuttgart, AS Roma, and Chelsea.
Throughout his professional career, Antonio Rudiger has collected a range of prestigious titles at both club and international levels.
With Real Madrid, Rudiger won the UEFA Champions League title in the 2023/24 season.
Earlier, he also clinched the Champions League trophy during the 2020/21 season with Chelsea.
In addition, the Berlin-born defender has twice lifted the FIFA Club World Cup trophy — once with Chelsea in 2022 and again with Real Madrid in 2023.
Other notable achievements include winning the UEFA Europa League with Chelsea in the 2018/19 season, the Spanish La Liga title in 2023/24, the Copa del Rey in 2022/23, and the Spanish Super Cup in 2023/24.
On the international stage, Rudiger was part of the German national team that won the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup.
Antonio Rudiger is one of the most seasoned players in the current German squad.
He has represented Germany in two previous World Cup editions — in 2018 and 2022.
Additionally, Rudiger has participated in two UEFA European Championships: Euro 2021 and Euro 2024.
His extensive experience makes him a vital presence in Germany’s dressing room ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With a remarkable track record of achievements and experience across Europe’s elite competitions, Antonio Rudiger is expected to remain a defensive pillar for Die Mannschaft as they aim for glory at the 2026 World Cup.
