Antonio Rudiger is confident that he can break into Real Madrid's defence next term, with the centre-back being presented to the media as a Los Blancos player on Monday.
The Germany international left Chelsea on a free transfer to complete a move to Real Madrid, signing a four-year contract at Bernabeu, with the move being confirmed earlier this month.
The 29-year-old has said that Barcelona made a move for him over the summer, but he was determined to join the reigning European and Spanish champions after discussions with their head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
"There was [a call] from Barcelona," Rudiger said during his press conference. "But I told my [agent] it was Real Madrid or nothing.
"The first time I got in contact, not myself but through my agent, was early September the first time. The second time was when I spoke with Ancelotti in April. I think that was the most important moment, to speak with Ancelotti and then I made my choice to play for this club and under him."
Rudiger has also vowed to "give everything" and "win as many trophies as possible" during his time at Real Madrid, who lifted both La Liga and the Champions League last term.
"I will give everything for the club and I want to win as many trophies as possible," Rudiger added. "It's all about winning at Real Madrid. This is what they've demonstrated over the past years.
"We all dream of winning the Champions League and, even with a lot of doubts from outside, they did the job last year. I don't know how to describe Real Madrid's Champions League run. It was unbelievable.
"I knew by the time of the final that I was going to be a Real Madrid player, so I was rooting for them. It also means we can compete next season for [the Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup]."
David Alaba and Eder Militao impressed in the middle of the Real Madrid defence last term, while Nacho is also set to remain at Bernabeu this summer, meaning that Rudiger faces a battle to secure a starting role.
However, there have been suggestions that Alaba could be moved across to left-back, with Ferland Mendy potentially being allowed to leave the club for the right price.
"Real Madrid are stacked with very good players, in my position as well. But, I am confident. What do I bring? Competition, which is healthy for everyone and keeps everyone going," he added.
"So, I'm looking forward to the challenge. Rome wasn't built in a day, so I have to come here this first year and adapt. I will also do my best to communicate in Spanish."
Rudiger enjoyed an impressive 2021-22 campaign for Chelsea, making 54 appearances in all competitions, contributing five goals and four assists in the process.
The centre-back leaves the Blues having won the FA Cup, Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup, making 203 appearances in all competitions. body check tags ::
