In the run-up to Real Madrid’s 2025 FIFA Club World Cup debut against Al-Hilal, German defender Antonio Rüdiger has stirred excitement with a resounding statement reflecting his ambition and confidence. In an interview with DAZN, the center-back stated, “I’m going to crush them with three goals in three different ways,” referring to the Saudi Arabian side. These words, delivered with the Berliner’s trademark intensity, have resonated throughout the Real Madrid dressing room and have filled new coach Xabi Alonso with optimism, as he prepares for his first major challenge at the helm of Real Madrid at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on June 18, 2025. Rüdiger’s statement not only underscores his role as a defensive leader but also reveals his intention to contribute offensively in a crucial tournament for Real Madrid.

Rüdiger, 32, has been a mainstay in Real Madrid’s defense since his arrival from Chelsea in 2022. Despite a 2024-25 season marred by an injury to the external meniscus in his left leg, suffered during the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, ​​the German has worked hard to be ready for the Club World Cup. According to Marca, Rüdiger has not trained with the group in recent sessions, but his presence at the tournament is not out of the question, and his statement suggests he is determined to make his mark. His record at the club, with 15 appearances and one goal in LaLiga this season, coupled with his ability to score in key moments, such as in the Copa del Rey semifinal against Real Sociedad, backs up his ambition.

The context of the match against Al-Hilal is significant. Real Madrid, under Xabi Alonso, are looking to regain their lost luster after a season without major titles. The team, which qualified for the tournament after winning the Champions League in 2022 and 2024, arrives with a revamped squad that includes Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, but with injury doubts regarding Eder Militão, Dani Carvajal, and Eduardo Camavinga. Al-Hilal, meanwhile, are a formidable opponent, led by players like Aleksandar Mitrović and boasting international experience after winning the 2021 AFC Champions League. The precedent of the 2022 Club World Cup final, where Real Madrid won 5-3, adds a touch of revenge to the match.

Rüdiger’s statement has been a morale boost for Alonso, who faces the pressure of starting his time at Real Madrid with a title. The Tolosa-born coach, who triumphed at Bayer Leverkusen with a style based on high pressing and attacking play, praised Rüdiger’s mentality. “It’s the kind of energy we need. Toni is a leader who infects the group,” Alonso said in a press conference. The coach’s confidence is reinforced by the German’s versatility, who is not only a defensive wall but has also demonstrated his ability to score from set pieces, with headers, long-range shots, or even rebounds. His promise of “three goals in three different ways” could refer to this variety of offensive resources.

Rüdiger’s impact transcends the sporting aspect. His outgoing nature and commitment to Real Madrid, where he has a contract until 2026, have made him a fan favorite. Despite rumors linking him to Al-Nassr following a photo with Fernando Hierro, Rüdiger denied any intention of leaving the club, according to Marca. His determination to shine at the Club World Cup, a tournament offering a €150 million prize, is a testament to his loyalty and ambition. Furthermore, his history of bold statements, such as when he promised to win the Copa del Rey final, reinforces the credibility of his current challenge.

For Real Madrid, the match against Al-Hilal marks the start of a difficult Group H campaign, which also includes Pachuca and Red Bull Salzburg. The confirmed absence of Kylian Mbappé due to general discomfort, according to Futbolred, puts even more pressure on players like Rüdiger to lead the team. Alonso could opt for a starting lineup with Andriy Lunin in goal, a defense led by Rüdiger and Huijsen, and an attack marshaled by Vinícius Jr. and Jude Bellingham. The German’s ability to fulfill his promise will depend on his fitness, but his winning mentality is a key asset.

As the football world awaits the kickoff, Rüdiger’s words have raised expectations. His challenge is not only a message to Al-Hilal, but a declaration of intent for a Real Madrid side seeking to regain its global dominance. With Alonso in charge and Rüdiger in gladiator mode, the Club World Cup debut promises to be a spectacle. The question now is whether the German center back can back up his bravado with goals, or if Al-Hilal will respond with the upset they are seeking in Miami.