Transfer Centre

Joachim Low says Antonio Rudiger "tried everything to leave Chelsea"

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 07 October 2020

Germany boss Joachim Low says Antonio Rudiger "tried everything" in an attempt to leave Chelsea before the end of the transfer window.

Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger "tried everything" in an attempt to secure a move away from Stamford Bridge before Monday's transfer deadline, according to Germany boss Joachim Low.

Rudiger has been out of favour at Chelsea in the early stages of the 2020-21 campaign and was strongly linked with a move away from Frank Lampard's side before the window slammed shut.

Low has claimed that the 27-year-old attempted to force an exit in a bid to secure regular football ahead of next summer's European Championships.

Rudiger ultimately remained at Stamford Bridge past the deadline, but the Germany head coach has said that the defender will "try to leave again" in January.

"I've been keeping an eye on things the last few days, what happened in the final hours [of the transfer window], how many changes there were at the last minute," Low told reporters.

"I think a lot of players will get game time this season – 11 players can't get you through a whole season. I was in constant contact with Toni Rudiger, he was keeping me in the loop. He had three or four options over the weekend but unfortunately, nothing materialised – he can try again in the winter.

"He has established himself as a top international player. In terms of athleticism, dynamism and tough duels, he maintains his top level for a few weeks even without match practice.

"He tried everything to leave Chelsea because the European Championship is very important to him. I think he'll try to leave again in the winter. He's doing everything he can to stay in his best form."

Rudiger is currently with the Germany squad preparing for their upcoming international matches against Turkey, Ukraine and Switzerland.