Makelele ready for PSG test

French midfielder returns to his homeland

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 21st July 2008

claude makelele psg

Makelele: Latest arrival at PSG

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Claude Makelele is relishing the prospect of helping Paris St Germain rekindle former glories.

The Ligue 1 giants endured a torrid 2007/08 campaign, only avoiding relegation from the French top flight on the last day of the season.

In the wake of their spectacular fall from grace the capital club have implemented a summer overhaul in an attempt to see them become upwardly mobile once more.

Ludovic Giuly has already joined from Roma, while the signing of former France international Makelele represents a significant coup for the club.

The midfielder admits that he is delighted to be back in his homeland after spending 10 years taking in spells at Celta Vigo, Real Madrid and Chelsea, but is under no illusions as to the task facing his new employers.

Experience

"It's a very important challenge for me," he said. "I'll try to bring my experience. I'll give my best, as I have done everywhere else.

"I hope that we'll have a better season than the last one. I wanted to come to Paris so badly that Chelsea accepted to let me go."

No details have been released concerning the length of contract the 35-year-old has penned at PSG, although it is thought that he will complete two years on the field before taking up a coaching role at the club.

Ligue 1 2008/09 Win Outright: PSG 20/1