Real Madrid's commanding defender Antonio Rüdiger has officially retired from international football with Germany, bringing an end to a distinguished 86-cap career that spanned some of the most pivotal moments in recent German football history.

The 30-year-old centre-back, now a cornerstone of Carlo Ancelotti's defence at the Spanish capital, has chosen to step away from international duty to dedicate himself entirely to his club ambitions. Rüdiger described the decision as closing "an extremely special chapter," reflecting on his years representing the national team while looking ahead to continued success at club level. Read the full story →

Today's takeaway: Rüdiger's decision signals his full commitment to Real Madrid's European ambitions at a crucial point in his career.