Former Madridista Claude Makélélé makes a major revelation about Antonio Rüdiger’s arrival at Real Madrid in 2022. In an interview with FreeFoot TV, the former defensive midfielder disclosed that he played a key role in convincing the German rock to join Los Blancos.
In France, Claude Makélélé is a well-known figure. A former French international (1995-2008, 71 caps), the Congolese-born midfielder is an inspiration to many young players. After an illustrious career that saw him play for FC Nantes (1992-1997, 205 appearances, 12 goals), Marseille, Real Madrid (2000-2003, 150 appearances, 10 goals), Chelsea (2003-2008, 280 appearances, 18 goals), and finally PSG (2008-2011, 118 appearances, 1 goal), the Kinshasa native transitioned into a coaching role. During his time on Chelsea’s technical staff, he crossed paths with Antonio Rüdiger.
Makélélé’s secrets about Rüdiger’s move to Madrid
It seems Makélélé earned the trust of the Madrid defender, who sought his advice in 2022. In an interview with the sports department of Free, the French telecom operator, later relayed by Marca, the former Madrid midfield enforcer revealed that Rüdiger approached him after receiving his first offer from Real Madrid. “The first thing Rüdiger did when he had the opportunity to sign for Real Madrid was to come and ask me: ‘What do you think?’ I told him: ‘Run, this is your chance,’” said the 2006 World Cup finalist before adding more details.
According to the 13th-place finisher in the 2005 Ballon d’Or rankings, Antonio Rüdiger was torn between multiple offers. “He had offers from PSG, Bayern… I told him: ‘You already have everything, but do you really want to become a player of that calibre? Then go for it. Play alongside the best players, and you’ll understand what it truly means,’” added Makélélé, confirming the significant role he played in the German international’s move to Real Madrid.
Rüdiger delighted with his time in Madrid
Today, Antonio has no regrets about his decision. A key pillar of the Madrid squad, the 33-year-old defender has won several major trophies and cemented his place as one of the best centre-backs in world football. With his tough, aggressive playing style, he plays a crucial role in Carlo Ancelotti’s side alongside young Raúl Asencio. During the recent international break, where he featured in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, Antonio Rüdiger confirmed that he is happy and eager to continue.
With just one year left on his contract, the German veteran hopes to reach an agreement with Florentino Pérez to extend his stay for a few more years. In any case, despite the physical toll of playing so many matches, he remains a vital part of Real Madrid’s tactical plans, especially as David Alaba is still far from filling the gap left by Éder Militão’s injury.
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