Everyone at training Today was surprised when Ancellotti confirmed that He will start ahead of Alaba tomorrow, I’m not surprised though because with the way He plays I think He’s even more better aggressively than Alaba himself”, Rudiger delivers His honest verdict on ONE Madrid defender who’s now confirmed to start against Arsenal Today

Everyone at Training Was Surprised”: Rudiger Reacts to Shock Ancelotti Decision Ahead of Arsenal Clash

Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger has delivered a bold and honest verdict in the build-up to Los Blancos’ high-profile pre-season clash against Arsenal, following a surprise selection decision by Carlo Ancelotti.

Speaking during a press conference ahead of the match, Rüdiger was asked about the unexpected lineup announcement made earlier in the day — one that had reportedly left several players stunned.

“Everyone at training today was surprised when Ancelotti confirmed that he will start ahead of Alaba tomorrow,” Rüdiger revealed. “I’m not surprised though, because with the way he plays, I think he’s even better aggressively than Alaba himself.”

While Rüdiger didn’t directly name the player, reports from Valdebebas strongly suggest he was referring to Éder Militão, who is now confirmed to be starting ahead of David Alaba in the defensive setup for the Arsenal game.

Militão has been working his way back to full fitness and sharpness following a long-term injury, and while many expected Ancelotti to ease him in behind the more senior Alaba-Rüdiger pairing, the Brazilian’s recent training performances appear to have convinced the Madrid boss otherwise.

Rüdiger’s words offer a glimpse into the intensity of competition at the heart of Madrid’s defense. Known for his no-nonsense style and fearless defending, Rüdiger seems to admire Militão’s aggressive and proactive approach.

“Militão’s got that fire in him. He’s physical, reads the game fast, and isn’t afraid to step out and break lines. I think people forget how good he really is,” Rüdiger added.

Carlo Ancelotti’s decision could be a strategic one, especially against an attacking side like Arsenal, who rely heavily on movement and pace in the final third. Militão’s athleticism and agility may provide a better matchup in such a scenario.

As Madrid prepare for one of their final pre-season tests, all eyes will now be on Militão to see if he justifies Ancelotti’s trust — and Rüdiger’s strong backing.

With competition heating up for starting roles in Madrid’s backline, one thing is clear: nobody’s position is guaranteed, not even someone as experienced as David Alaba.