Stuttgart forward wary of Real Madrid defender – ‘He pinches a lot’

Sasa Kalajdzic has sent a warning to his team-mates about Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger ahead of the Champions League last-16 second leg.

Kalajdzic, who is Stuttgart’s top scorer this season with 16 goals in all competitions, knows all about Rudiger from their time together at Stuttgart.

“He pinches a lot,” Kalajdzic said. “He’s one of those players who gets under your skin. He’s always talking and trying to put you off your game.”

“But he’s also a very good defender. He’s very strong and physical, and he’s good on the ball as well. He’s one of the best defenders in the world.”

Kalajdzic’s comments suggest that Stuttgart are worried about Rudiger’s ability to disrupt their attack in the second leg. The Bundesliga side will need to score at least once at the Santiago Bernabeu to have any chance of progressing.

Stuttgart head to Madrid with a 2-1 deficit from the first leg. They will need to score at least once at the Santiago Bernabeu to have any chance of progressing.

Rudiger has been a key player for Real Madrid since joining from Chelsea last summer. He has helped the Spanish giants keep 12 clean sheets in 26 appearances in all competitions.

The Germany international is also a threat going forward, having scored three goals this season. He will be looking to add to his tally against Stuttgart on Tuesday night.

Kalajdzic will need to be at his best if he is to get the better of Rudiger and help Stuttgart pull off a shock win in Madrid.