'His allegiance is with Real Madrid' - Ex-African POTY reveals Rudiger is done with Chelsea

Published: April 25, 2022

Former African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba has blasted Antonio Rudiger for refusing to play through the pain barrier in Chelsea's Premier League meeting with West Ham United on Sunday.

The official word is that the central defender was not included in the matchday squad because of groin and hamstring issues but the German is expected to be available for selection against Manchester United as he is due to resume training on tomorrow.

Rudiger has turned down a new contract at Chelsea and is set to leave on a free transfer at the end of June when his deal expires.

Real Madrid are the clear favourites for the signature of the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup winner.

Ikpeba has pointed out the Rudiger's loyalty lies elsewhere and is urging Thomas Tuchel not to play him again this season.

Speaking on SuperSport's Monday Night Football, monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, Ikpeba said : "It was unprofessional, I think he's done with Chelsea. If I am the manager I won't play him anymore.

"His allegiance is now with Real Madrid, he is not focused for Chelsea, he should just move on.

"He shouldn't do that, it's unprofessional from him."

Signed from Roma in July 2017, Rudiger has won the Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and FA Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : chelseafc.com

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