Antonio Rüdiger has been omitted from Germany’s latest squad announcement for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Hungary and the Netherlands. The decision marks the first time in several years that Germany will feature no Real Madrid players in their lineup.
Head coach Julian Nagelsmann, in his first squad selection following Euro 2024, has opted for a new-look team. This decision was largely driven by the recent retirements of key players. Toni Kroos has hung up his boots entirely, while Ilkay Gündogan, Thomas Müller, and Manuel Neuer have retired from international duty.
While Rüdiger has not retired from the national team, he has requested a break from international duties due to the intense nature of the summer schedule.
Rüdiger’s absence is notable, especially given his influential role at the back for both Germany and Real Madrid.
Germany is set to face Hungary in Düsseldorf on September 7th, followed by a clash against the Netherlands in Amsterdam on September 10th. These fixtures will be critical as Nagelsmann looks to establish a new identity for the team in the UEFA Nations League.
For the first time in years, Germany will be without any Real Madrid players in their squad.