Claude Makelele has explained quitting Swansea City as assistant manager to take charge of Eupen.

The decision surprised many inside Belgian football, given the cushy job the Frenchman was enjoying in Wales.

But Makelele insisted: "In life, you have to take risks. In all trades. I take this with excitement and enthusiasm. We'll see the results

"I like to learn, I like to travel. I never thought I would be in Wales, Swansea to become an assistant coach.

"Come to Eupen? It's an experience and it can only help me mature and become stronger. Every country has its football DNA. I came often to Belgium. I know what football means in this country. Belgium is a country where many great clubs come to buy. It's not for nothing. There is quality."

Makelele continued: "I have no style of play. A coach must adapt to his players. They are the ones who give the tempo. I adapt to the qualities of the players. I try to play smart and be tactically ready to not make the same mistakes again.

"I saw a team with character and players of very good quality. It helps to work in good conditions."