Former [Real Madrid](https://www.managingmadrid.com) midfielder Claude Makelele has shared details of a conversation he had with Antonio Rüdiger before the German defender completed his move to the Spanish giants. Speaking on ‘FreeFoot,’ Makelele explained how he encouraged Rüdiger to seize the opportunity to join Los Blancos.
“Look at him now at Real Madrid. The first thing he did when he got the chance at Real Madrid was come to me and say: ‘What do you think?’ I told him, run, this is your chance. He had offers from Bayern, PSG... but I said: ‘Do you want to win titles? You’ve already won some, you have everything, but do you really want to become a player at that level? Then go there, rub shoulders with the great players and you’ll understand what it means. I’m happy for him,” Makelele explained.
The French international, who enjoyed a successful three-year stint at Real Madrid, playing 145 official matches and winning seven titles including the UEFA [Champions League](https://www.sbnation.com/champions-league), used his own experiences to highlight the prestige of representing the club.
Makelele’s words clearly resonated with Rüdiger, who made the switch from Chelsea to Real Madrid in the summer of 2022. Since then, Rüdiger has established himself as a crucial member of the squad, cementing his status as a starter with his defensive prowess and leadership on the pitch.