Antonio Rüdiger “hesitant” to enter Chelsea contract talks before Euros — report

The arrival of manager Thomas Tuchel at Chelsea has been a boon for the club and also for players such as centre-back Antonio Rüdiger. The defender who was very close to leaving the club last summer has become a central figure in the new boss’ three-man defence, all while putting on performances to show why he deserves to be a regular feature in our starting elevens.

Chelsea have gotten the message loud and clear, and they are reportedly keen on extending Rüdiger’s contract with the club before the end of the season (after apparently failing to do so last year). But they might find it a bit harder than usual to convince the German defender that Stamford Bridge is the place to be for him in the long-term, as a report from Kicker claims he is “hesitant” to enter talks with the club before the European Championship set to take place between June and July this year.

This does not mean Rüdiger is not open to discuss a deal to extend his stay beyond 2022 when the appropriate time for him comes. But according to Kicker, he has not taken Chelsea’s lack of support for him during his “ostracization” under Frank Lampard lightly. That is likely what Rüdiger wants to reflect upon once he has time to do so, as his headspace is probably focused on doing his best for Chelsea this season.