Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has welcomed his former Chelsea team-mate Antonio Rudiger to Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid confirmed on Thursday that German defender Rudiger had completed his move to the La Liga club on a four-year deal.
Rudiger joins the new European champions on a free transfer, having rejected the London club’s attempts to extend his contract.
The 29-year-old player 203 games for the Blues, winning the Champions League, FA Cup, Europa League, Super Cup and Club World Cup in his five-year spell at the club.
Rudiger bid farewell to Chelsea in a letter on the Players’ Tribune last month and said he was leaving ‘with a heavy heart’.
Courtois, who spent seven years at the club before joining Real Madrid in 2018, was quick to message Rudiger after his move to Spain was confirmed.
Meanwhile, Chelsea described Rudiger as ‘one of the most passionate characters to ever represent the club in recent memory’ as they paid tribute to the successful defender.
‘Rudiger was also an important figure in the dressing room with his leadership and passion, while his dedication and desire to win never faltered, even when it became clear he would be leaving the club this summer,’ Chelsea added in a statement.
‘Chelsea Football Club thanks Toni for his contribution to our success over the last five years and wishes him well in his future career.’
Courtois produced a Player of the Match display in Real Madrid’s Champions League final win over Chelsea’s Premier League rivals Liverpool last weekend.
The Belgian keeper hit out at his critics after lifting the trophy, telling BT Sport: ‘I said that when Madrid plays finals, they win. I was on the good side of history.
‘I saw a lot of tweets coming my way that I would get humbled today – it was the other way round. ‘Today I needed to win a final for my career, for all the hard work to put respect on my name as I don’t think I get enough respect, especially in England.
‘I saw a lot of criticism even after a great season. I am really proud of the team. We stuck to it and when I needed to be there I was there for the team.’
