FROM RIVALS TO TEAMMATES: German stars Antonio Rudiger and Niclas Fullkrug involved in a ‘fiery clash’ during training just days before Euro 2024.

In the Champions League final, which pitted Real Madrid against Borussia Dortmund, the two faced off.

Prior to their opening Euro 2024 match against Scotland, Germany’s preparations took an unwelcome turn on Monday during a public training session.

Four thousand spectators reportedly witnessed a “heated” altercation between Antonio Rudiger and Niclas Fullkrug.
According to the German magazine BILD, Rudiger, a defender for Real Madrid, repeatedly brought Fullkrug down during a specific training exercise.

Furthermore, the Borussia Dortmund attacker ‘cursed’ at his Germany teammate after a ‘rough’ tackle caused Fullkrug to strike the deck.

The report really states that Fullkrug approached Rudiger directly and that they shoved one another, “almost” exchanging blows as a result.

It is thought that Sandro Wagner, the assistant coach for Germany, intervened to keep the two apart.

Shortly after the altercation, BILD reported that Rudiger and Fullkrug were still unhappy about what had happened. A drinks break was then ordered.

To his credit, Wagner intervened to attempt to soothe Rudiger while a vengeful Fullkrug’stomped’ past the Germany centre defender.

Rudiger, meanwhile, chose to ‘probably’ calm down from the unpleasant events by going for a run with the fitness trainer rather than showing up for the team session.

The incident happened a few days before Germany, the hosts, opens Euro 2024 against Scotland at the Allianz Arena.

It’s also implied, rather ironically, that Fullkrug and Rudiger are close pals.

Indeed, Fullkrug listed his German buddy as one of the 26-man roster players he gets along with the best on Monday.

Both players participated in the June 1 Champions League final, which saw Real Madrid defeat Borussia Dortmund 2-0 to win their 15th European Cup.

Fullkrug talked candidly about his bond with Rudiger before the game.

“I love him, he’s a good boy.” Despite his aggression, I like him because he’s really honest,” the 31-year-old remarked.

He is the same in training: he is an innate leader. He seems to be trying to murder you as he approaches you (laughing). However, I’m the same way and I enjoy competing against opponents who are similar to me.”