CHELSEA defender Antonio Rudiger paid a farewell visit to Chelsea and Westminster Hospital this week.
Rudiger is set to join Real Madrid in the summer, but made sure to surprise hospital staff and patients before he officially leaves.
Antonio Rudiger paid a surprised visit to Chelsea and Westminster HospitalCredit: CW PLUS
The defender handed out gifts to patientsCredit: CW PLUS
Rudiger posed for photographs with children in hospitalCredit: CW PLUS
The 29-year-old spent a whole afternoon delivering presents, signing autographs and posing for pictures on behalf of the CW+ charity.
He visited patients on the paediatric ward and also thanked staff from the ICU unit for their efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic.
It’s not the first time kind-hearted Rudiger has shown his gratitude for all the good work the hospital does.
On his birthday last year the Chelsea centre-back sent cakes and soft drinks in to hospital staff as a token of his appreciation for their efforts.
He has been eager to support the hospital throughout his five-year spell in south-west London.
After helping spread joy throughout the hospital upon his visit, Rudiger said: “I’ve fully enjoyed visiting Chelsea and Westminster Hospital today and over the years.
“It’s always been important to me to come out into the community and show my support, and once again it’s been a real pleasure to meet both patients and staff who are such an inspiration.
“The hospital and staff are incredible and work tirelessly to deliver the best possible care – thank you for everything you do – I will miss you all!”
The German defender will leave Chelsea this summer upon the expiry of his contract.
Explaining his reasoning for leaving, Rudiger dismissed the theory that Government sanctions are behind his decision to quit Chelsea.
Speaking after the FA Cup final defeat to Liverpool last weekend, Rudiger expressed his thanks to Chelsea and said the club will always be “special” to him.
The German international is set to earn £400,000-a-week at Real Madrid.
