Former Chelsea Star Reveals Rejecting Real Madrid to Join Blues

In a recent podcast appearance on The Obi One Podcast, former Chelsea winger Florent Malouda revealed that he had options to join Real Madrid and Liverpool but ultimately chose Chelsea. The Frenchman, who went on to enjoy success with the Blues, provided insights into his decision-making process during that period.

Malouda expressed that while considering his options, he strongly desired a move to Chelsea. He cited his familiarity with some of the Chelsea players, including Michael Essien and Claude Makelele, as a significant factor in his decision. The French winger had a connection with the club and had attended matches as a spectator, which contributed to his sense of closeness with Chelsea.

He mentioned on the podcast, “I really wanted to come to Chelsea because I knew some of the guys with Michael Essien, Makelele, all those guys, and I was coming sometimes to watch the game. So I was feeling close to Chelsea.”

During the period when Malouda made this decision, he was a key player for Lyon, winning four consecutive Ligue 1 titles and earning the French league’s Player of the Year award for the 2006/07 season. Real Madrid, among others, showed interest in the French winger, given his impressive performances at Lyon.

Ultimately, Malouda opted for Chelsea, where he achieved considerable success. He won the Premier League, three FA Cups, and notably, the UEFA Champions League during his time with the Blues. Despite the potential opportunities with Real Madrid and Liverpool, Malouda’s choice to join Chelsea shaped a successful chapter in his football career.