Neither Lewandowski nor Yamal: Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger names toughest player he’s faced in La Liga

Antonio Rudiger took the next step in his career by joining Real Madrid ahead of the 2022–23 season, quickly establishing himself as one of the top center-backs in world soccer. Having faced numerous elite forwards during his time in Spain, the German international surprised many when he named the toughest opponent he has encountered in La Liga—passing over the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal.

Now in his second full season with Los Blancos, Rudiger has been a model of consistency. After helping Real Madrid win the 2023–24 La Liga title, he’s once again playing a key role in a squad pushing for another championship. Yet when it comes to the most difficult player to defend, one name stood out.

In an interview with Qatar’s Alkass Sports, Rudiger was asked to identify the most challenging player he’s faced in La Liga. His answer: “Julián Alvarez,” the Real Madrid defender said without hesitation, selecting Atletico Madrid’s recent signing over any other attacker he’s encountered in nearly three seasons.

At first glance, the choice might come as a surprise, especially considering Barcelona’s Lewandowski and Yamal have scored a combined five goals in their last two Clásico meetings with Madrid. However, Alvarez’s physicality, mobility, and relentless pressure have proven to be a serious challenge for defenders, particularly in tight matchups.

Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have clashed four times across all competitions in the 2024–25 season—twice in La Liga and twice in the Champions League—with each side earning one win and two draws. Alvarez has made his mark in those contests, scoring twice and constantly threatening the Madrid backline with his movement and positioning.

Rudiger responds to Alvarez penalty controversy

The recent Champions League penalty shootout between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid sparked debate after Julian Alvarez was accused of touching the ball twice while converting his attempt. Rudiger, who scored the match-winning penalty, weighed in on the incident with a clear response.

“Most of the time, when you slip like that during a penalty, you touch the ball with your left leg. He’s right-footed, he shoots with his right, and the ball touches his left. In the end, I’m not a big fan of talking about referees and that sort of thing. The referee made the decision, he went to the VAR and didn’t give the penalty, so I don’t know what controversy we’re talking about,” the German explained.