Real Madrid veteran likely to lose starting role under Jose Mourinho next season | OneFootball

Antonio  Rudiger’s position at Real Madrid could come under increasing threat next season as a number of developments are influencing the club’s defensive hierarchy ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the experienced German defender may no longer be guaranteed the prominent role he once enjoyed at the Santiago Bernabeu. 

While much will ultimately depend on Jose Mourinho’s plans, it is said that several factors are already working against  Rudiger as competition for places intensifies.

The 33-year-old remains an important figure within the squad, but with new signings, returning players and changing dynamics at both club and international level, the battle for minutes is expected to become tougher for the veteran.

Competition growing on multiple fronts for  Rudiger

 Rudiger’s situation has become increasingly complicated in recent months, and one factor is Real Madrid’s ongoing interest in strengthening the centre-back position. 

Despite already signing Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer from Liverpool, Real Madrid are expected to make more signings to reinforce the defence.

Rudiger could lose his starting role. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Should that materialise, competition in Mourinho’s defensive unit would increase significantly.

On the other hand, the German international is also facing challenges away from club football.

Within the national team,  Rudiger is no longer considered an undisputed starter, as Julian Nagelsmann has turned toJonathan Tah and Nico Schlotterbeck, which has limited Rudiger’s influence.

While international selections do not directly affect club football, they often reflect changing perceptions regarding a player’s place among the elite defenders in Europe.

Militao and Huijsen add pressure at Real Madrid

Back at the club level, the competition within Real Madrid could prove even more problematic for Rudiger, who has renewed his contract with Real Madrid.

Rudiger is no longer a first choice for Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

This is because Eder Militao is expected to be fully recovered and available from the next season, giving Mourinho another top-level option at the heart of defence. 

At the same time, Real Madrid remain committed to Dean Huijsen despite the youngster enduring a difficult period after arriving last summer. 

The club invested heavily in the highly-rated defender and remain convinced that regular playing time is essential to unlocking his full potential.

That creates a delicate balancing act, as Mourinho will have to manage the development of younger defenders while also maintaining competitiveness. 

In such a scenario, veteran players like Rudiger could find themselves facing reduced opportunities.