“May Allah bless you and protect you” - Paul Pogba sends message to 31-year-old Real Madrid star after Intercontinental Cup win

France midfielder Paul Pogba has sent a message to Antonio Rudiger after the 31-year-old won the Intercontinental Cup with Real Madrid. Los Blancos defeated Mexican side Pachuca 3-0 at the Lusial Stadium in Doha, Qatar, on Wednesday, December 18, to lift the inaugural edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring for the LaLiga giants in the 37th minute off a Vinicius Jr assist. Rodrygo Goes extended Madrid's lead with a strike in the 53rd minute before Vinicius Jr wrapped up the victory from the penalty spot in the 84th minute after Lucas Vasquez was fouled in the box.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti named Rudiger in the starting XI for the clash. 90 minutes on the pitch, he made two clearances, blocked one shot, intercepted one pass, and completed 96% of his passes accurately (via Sofascore).

After the victory, the former Chelsea star posted pictures on his Instagram, including one holding the Intercontinental Cup trophy and his FIFA Best XI award. He captioned the post:

"Great days in Qatar! Champions Of The World & FIFA Best XI !"

Paul Pogba congratulated the Real Madrid defender on his recent achievements. He wrote in the comment section (via Madrid Xtra on X):

"Allahumma Barik my brother...may Allah bless you and protect you Ameen."

Antonio Rudiger has established himself as one of Los Blancos' most instrumental players since joining the club on a free from Chelsea in 2022. He has won eight major trophies, including the LaLiga, UEFA Champions League, and Copa Del Rey.

The German international has made 25 appearances across competitions for Carlo Ancelotti's side this season, contributing two goals. He has registered six goals and three assists in 163 games for the club.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti sets new club record after Intercontinental Cup win

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has become the most decorated manager in the club's history after guiding them to a 3-0 win over Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final.

The Italian manager has now led Los Blancos to 15 titles across two stints as manager. With Madrid, he has won two Champions League titles, two league titles, two Copas Del Rey, and two Spanish Super Cups. Additionally, he has won three UEFA Super Cup trophies and two FIFA Club World Cups for the club.

Ancelotti surpassed club legend Miguel Munoz who won 14 titles as Real Madrid manager between 1959 and 1974.