Stuttgart forward wary of Real Madrid defender – ‘He pinches a lot’ | OneFootball

Stuttgart striker Deniz Undav has shared his thoughts on facing Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger, a defender and fellow German national team player.

Undav, known for his straightforward approach, acknowledged Rudiger’s reputation for being a tough opponent on the pitch.

In his comments to the sports magazine Kicker (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Undav highlighted that he feels “prepared” for the challenge of playing against Rudiger.

The forward noted with a smile that Rudiger has a reputation for being quite physical, often using tactics like pinching to unsettle his opponents.

Undav even jokingly mentioned that he has warned his Stuttgart teammate, Ermedin Demirovic, to be ready for Rudiger’s disruptive style.

“I have to tell Demirovic that he has to be prepared for the fact that he pinches a lot,” said Undav.

Undav also addressed the media’s questions about whether he had been in touch with Rudiger recently. He clarified that there had been no communication between them.

Deniz Undav is wary of Antonio Rudiger’s threat. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Both players are focused on their own preparations, and Undav suggested that they might exchange messages closer to their match.

“He is focused on himself, I am focused on myself. Let’s see, maybe there is another message,” said the Stuttgart player.

Pressure of playing against Real Madrid

Looking ahead to Stuttgart’s upcoming clash against Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu, Undav was candid about the challenge. He emphasised that the team cannot afford to be intimidated by the prestige of Real Madrid.

“We have to face it with a clear head and imagine that we can win. Otherwise, we have no chance.”

Undav believes that if Stuttgart approaches the game with fear, they are doomed to fail before even stepping onto the field.

The forward’s recent performance, including a goal against Borussia Monchengladbach in the Bundesliga, has no doubt boosted his confidence.

He is determined to face Real Madrid with the right attitude, aware that their opponents’ reputation alone should not dictate their approach to the game.

“If you are afraid of Real Madrid because it is Real Madrid, then you will lose. Then you won’t even have to fly there,” he concluded.