Only after understanding the old and new Real Madrid s alternation was that Rudiger s struggle was just the beginning

Last season, Antonio Rudiger was also the indispensable iron-blooded hero on Real Madrid's defense line. But now, the arrival of Harvey Alonso has made his situation more difficult than ever. After three league games in the new season, the German international only gained one starting opportunity. In the La Liga opening match of the new season, Rudiger was unable to play due to suspension. He sat on the bench against Mallorca and only got a starting chance against Real Oviedo. The throne of the past seems to no longer belong to him. The inverted reel of the defense line, Rudiger's fall of favor was not because of his decline in form, but because the competition in Real Madrid's defense line has reached the hell level.

With the recovery of injury from Militon and Alaba, coupled with the new coach Alonso selected Dean Heisen, Real Madrid has now stockpiled up to five top players in the central defender position.

Judging from Alonso's current employment, Militon, who has returned from injury and the highly favored Heisen, are his first choice. Rudiger, the former absolute main force, has already fallen at a disadvantage in this cruel inclination.

Ice and Fire, however, the most ironic scene happened on the just-concluded international match day.

At the club, Rudiger is struggling with playing time. But in the German national team coached by Nagelsmann, he is still an unshakable core of the defense. He started all of his two games against Slovakia and Northern Ireland, and was the team's well-deserved defensive leader.

This world of difference undoubtedly adds a hint of tragic color to Rudiger's situation.

The difficult battle

It is obvious that unless there are accidents such as injuries in the team, Rudiger's path at Real Madrid this season will no longer be as smooth as before.

The German iron guard, known for his tenacious fighting spirit, is no longer the opponent's forward, but a day-to-day cruel competition with his world-class teammates on the training ground.

His Real Madrid career ushered in a difficult battle of redemption.