‘That’s true for me, especially with the Germans, to help them and everything because it is the first time they have lived out of Germany. To look after them, help them and assist them with everything.
‘I’ve known Timo for a long time and we played together in the national team. He’s a brilliant player and he’s there to score goals. He did that in the friendly match against Brighton and he did that also in the international break, so I hope he’s going to do the same here with us at Chelsea in the future. Kai has played in the national team for two years so we have a good understanding too, so they know that I will help them for sure.’
As well as welcoming two of his countrymen to Chelsea, Rudiger is excited about the prospect of teaming up with one of the world’s most successful defenders of recent years following the arrival at Stamford Bridge of Thiago Silva, widely considered as one of the best centre-backs of his generation.
‘He is one of the best of his generation, definitely,’ said the German. ‘Of course, first of all, to learn from such a great player and everything, and also to have the chance to play alongside this type of player, it is massive. I think it gives everyone a boost and I’m looking forward to it.’
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