Dortmund have done well to get this far but at Real Madrid, the Champions League is a birthright.
Pepe Reina of Liverpool saves the penalty from Geremi (#14) of Chelsea (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
Former Real Madrid and Cameroon star Geremi Njitap shares his insights on the upcoming Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund. In an exclusive interview with RG, Njitap emphasizes the deep-rooted obsession Madrid has with the Champions League and tips them to add to their 14 titles this weekend at Wembley.
Real Madrid's Champions League Obsession
Geremi Njitap spent three seasons at Real Madrid, playing alongside some of the best players in the world and winning two Champions League trophies. He highlights the club's relentless pursuit of European glory.
"The Champions League is why we all went to Real Madrid, it's like the obsession of everyone and if you wear that famous white shirt then you have to be able to produce on a night like the Champions League night."
The Cameroonian star points out that Real Madrid’s hunger for success remains undiminished, driven by both the manager and the players' individual determination.
"It's like a birthright. If you look at the best players in the world, they all came to Madrid for a night like the Champions League night, and these current crop have just taken everything to the next level."
"They have won it several times but they continue to have the same level of hunger in them and that is due to the manager but also their individual grit and determination."
Dortmund's Remarkable Journey
Borussia Dortmund has defied the odds to reach their first final in over a decade, showcasing a different business model compared to Real Madrid's investment in global superstars. Njitap admires Dortmund's approach and warns that they will not be an easy opponent.
"Dortmund have enjoyed a remarkable rise this season and not many gave them a chance to get to the final."
"They were in the same group with teams like PSG and Newcastle, and they met them again in the knockout stage and beat them to reach the final, so they got here on merit."
Njitap also praises Dortmund's ability to develop young talent, such as Jude Bellingham, who has become one of the best players in the world.
"Don't forget they got Jude Bellingham when others didn’t even believe in him and they made him a star before he went to Madrid."
Jude Bellingham's Bright Future
Reflecting on Jude Bellingham's journey and potential, Njitap is impressed by the young English star's talent and resilience.
"I think he will be competing with the best of the best for a long time to come and he has everything to go on and even be better. Look to be at Real Madrid at his age and not be bothered and just enjoy his game like he’s doing is just remarkable."
