IChristoph Metzelder (born November 5, 1980 in Haltern, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany) is a football defender for Real Madrid. Metzelder is also a part of the Germany national football team, with whom he has amassed a total of 32 caps.

In the summer of 2000, Metzelder signed for Borussia, and he was an instant success. He not only won the German championships with BVB in 2002 as a regular first team player, he also reached the 2002 FIFA World Cup final with Germany. In the tournament, he was also voted the "Best player under the age of 23".

Metzelder is considered as one of the best central defenders in the world. With a height of 1.94 metres, he is strong in the air. He can also play on the right side of defence. His tackling skills, both in the air and on the ground, make Metzelder a reliable defensive player. Sir Alex Ferguson was once quoted saying that he was the best central defender and Manchester United's first choice replacement for Gary Neville.

On April 18, 2007 it was announced that Metzelder was to sign for Real Madrid at the end of the 2006-2007 season. It has been confirmed that Metzelder will be Real Madrid's first signing for the 2007-2008 season: Real Madrid sign Metzelder

Christoph's younger Brother Malte Metzelder was also a professional player for Dortmund.