Stuttgart striker suspicious of Real Madrid defender – “He pinches a lot”

Stuttgart striker Deniz Undav has shared his thoughts on the match against Real Madrid defender and German international Antonio Rüdiger.

Undav, known for his direct style, acknowledged Rüdiger's reputation for being a tough opponent on the pitch.

In his comments to the sports magazine Kicker (h/t World Sports) Undav stressed that he felt “prepared” for the challenge of playing against Rüdiger.

The striker noted with a smile that Rüdiger has a reputation for playing quite physically and often uses tactics such as pinching to unsettle his opponents.

Undav even jokingly mentioned that he had warned his Stuttgart teammate Ermedin Demirovic to be prepared for Rüdiger's disruptive style.

“I have to tell Demirovic that he has to be prepared to pinch a lot,” said Undav.

Undav also answered media questions about whether he had been in contact with Rüdiger recently. He clarified that there had been no communication between them.

Both players are focused on their own preparations and Undav suggested that they could exchange messages just before the game.

“He focuses on himself, I focus on myself. Let's see, maybe there is another message.” said the Stuttgart player.

The pressure of playing against Real Madrid

Looking ahead to Stuttgart's upcoming clash against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, Undav spoke openly about the challenge, stressing that the team should not be intimidated by Real Madrid's prestige.

“We have to approach this with a clear head and imagine that we can win. Otherwise we have no chance.”

Undav is convinced that Stuttgart are doomed to failure before they even step onto the pitch if they approach the game with fear.

The striker's recent performances, including a goal against Borussia Mönchengladbach in the Bundesliga, have undoubtedly boosted his confidence.

He is determined to face Real Madrid with the right attitude and is aware that the opponent's reputation alone should not dictate their approach to the game.

“If you're afraid of Real Madrid because it's Real Madrid, then you're going to lose. Then you don't even have to fly there.” he concluded.