Chelsea: Antonio Rudiger looks like he’s the odd man out

In a surprising turn of events, it seems as if Antonio Rudiger’s time at Chelsea is quickly coming to a close as his play time dwindles.

Antonio Rudiger is making headlines once again and this time, he’s linked with a move away from Chelsea. The centerback has found himself in the news on numerous occasions over the last few months for both his German national team appearances and recruiting skills at the club level.

Rudiger is now being linked with a transfer out of Stamford Bridge as the window begins to wind down. He looks to secure play time before the European Championships next summer after not being selected in any of the Blues’ opening three matches (only managing to make the bench at Brighton). While the club’s handling of the situation on the surface may look a bit harsh, it’s the best move for both parties in the long run.

The 27-year-old played a massive role in Chelsea’s success this offseason. Rudiger was a key player in the transfers of his fellow German teammates Timo Werner and Kai Havertz. He regularly spoke with each superstar, told them each about life in west London and was likely the second most influential figure in their decisions—behind only Frank Lampard. While these recruiting efforts will certainly not go unnoticed—or unappreciated—Rudiger’s on field performances have fallen well short of what was asked of him.

Thanks to a—let’s say, unique—announcement video, Rudiger is one of the most well-known signings of the Antonio Conte era. The centerback made his way over from Italy where he thrived in his 50+ Serie A appearances. Unfortunately for him, he struggled with injuries and the same goes for his time in Chelsea blue. After coming back from an injury last season, Rudiger’s inclusion seemed only to throw off the chemistry the centerhalves had going for them.

His last few months with the club can be summed up by one action: giving away a decisive penalty in this year’s preseason friendly. Since then, Lampard has failed to select the veteran of the bunch and with Thiago Silva now in the dressing room, Rudiger’s fallen out of favor. Similar to the David Luiz situation of last summer, Lampard’s fourth-choice centerback wants out once again as minutes seem minimal from here on out.

Fikayo Tomori seems to have gotten back on the gaffer’s good side after two sumptuous outings against Liverpool and Barnsley. If Rudiger wants any chance at starting for Germany in the Euros, he needs regular playing time. Unfortunately, he won’t get it at the Bridge. Lampard only held on to four central defenders last season and with Kurt Zouma, Tomori, Silva and Christensen all being selected over a healthy Rudiger early on, the future seems crystal clear.

At 27, it’s smart for the Blues to look at options, as well, with talks of an extension seemingly going nowhere. Things essentially came down to Andreas Christensen or Rudiger—there was never going to be room for both this season—and Lampard has likely made up his mind. The second-year manager rightfully chose youth in Tomori and Christensen over the experience of Rudiger. Regardless of what happens going forward, if there is a split, let’s just hope Rudiger and the club part on good terms. His impact for Chelsea may have been underwhelming on the pitch, but he’ll go down as a legend off it for his vibrant personality and role as a recruiter.

Who do you think should be the Chelsea centerback to leave? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter!