Thomas Tuchel labelled Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger as “outstanding” after his individual performance last night in the Champions League.
It was an evening full of every emotion possible for a Chelsea fan, who eventually saw their side lose 5-4 on aggregate to Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals.
An inspired display from the Blues saw them overturn a 3-1 deficit from the first leg to take Tuesday’s contest to extra time with the overall scoreline level at 4-4.
Karim Benzema, who scored four goals across the two legs, did find a winning goal in extra time with his header, though.
Chelsea boss Tuchel was asked specifically about Rudiger at one stage during his post-match interview.
The £100,000-a-week defender earned a rave review from his manager:
“Toni was outstanding. It was a world-class performance in all belongings. It is what he does on an extremely high level. It is his mentality and focus and leadership all combined. It is outstanding. This is another example of what he can do after another. That’s it,” Tuchel said.
Another Chelsea reminder
Yet again, Blues fans were reminded tonight of how good Rudiger actually is.
He was unfortunate to slip in the box for the build-up for Benzema’s winner, but it was mainly another exquisite display from him.
The 29-year-old centre-back made some excellent interventions throughout the 120 minutes to dent Madrid, as well as scoring a towering header to level the contest up at the time.
With his contract expiring this summer, Chelsea are facing the bleak possibility of next season without him.
It’s been reported that the Blues are desperate for the takeover to happen quickly, so they can try negotiate a new deal for Rudiger again.
It’s absolutely imperative he stays.
For those who may doubt his loyalty, the emotion he showed on the full-time whistle showed how much he cares and loves this club.
Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
