Dani Ceballos confirms he is leaving Real Madrid
Midfielder Dani Ceballos has confirmed he is leaving Real Madrid after seven seasons, bringing an end to a successful spell that delivered 16 major trophies with the Spanish giants.
'I'm very excited' - Antonio Rudiger relishing working with Joe Mourinho at Real Madrid
Rudiger, who was named Germany's vice-captain in the country's official 26-man squad for the tournament, has balanced his World Cup commitments with the anticipation of returning to Madrid to begin a new chapter under Mourinho.
Real Madrid believe Mourinho's return can help the club reclaim the La Liga title after finishing behind Barcelona in each of the last two seasons, while also bringing greater unity to the squad ahead of the new campaign.
Rudiger has admitted he has waited a long time for the opportunity to play under the experienced Portuguese coach.
"I can't say too much, but I can say that I'm very excited," Rudiger said.
"At last I am going to play under his orders. In the past there were many conversations with him, but for some reason it never happened. That's why now I'm even happier to welcome him to the team."
The Germany international also reflected on his decision to extend his stay at Real Madrid. Earlier this month, he signed a one-year contract extension that will keep him at the Santiago Bernabeu until the end of next season.
Rudiger said there was never any doubt about where he wanted to continue his career despite enduring an injury-hit campaign.
"I had a difficult last year, especially physically," he said. "I had to fight a lot with injuries and I managed to come back."
"Real Madrid is practically my home. I feel great, my family feels great there, and that's why I never really thought about anything else. I just wanted to get back in shape and earn my new contract. And I succeeded."
Jose Mourinho dismisses Real Madrid clear-out talk and backs star-studded squad
Jose Mourinho has moved quickly to calm speculation over a major shake-up at Real Madrid, insisting he has no intention of breaking up the club's star-studded squad despite another disappointing campaign.
'He understands each players needs' - Suarez hails Hansi Flick after Barcelona success
Luis Suarez believes Hansi Flick's Barcelona have continued to prove their critics wrong by maintaining their intensity, attacking style and winning mentality under the German manager.
'I'll get on well with him' - Marc Cucurella excited to play with Vinicius Junior at Real Madrid
Marc Cucurella has said he is excited about the challenge of joining Real Madrid and is already looking forward to building a strong partnership with Vinicius Junior after completing his move from Chelsea.