Eden Hazard appeared to criticise manager Antonio Conte’s tactics after the loss against Manchester City a few weeks ago. Hazard was used at the top of a false-nine formation – not for the first time – and the Belgian was not effective in this role. He appeared to hint that he was quite happy at playing as a forward-biased winger, as it provided him with opportunities to score goals and create chances for his teammates.
The comments did not go well among the media, who have since then linked Hazard with a move away from Chelsea on a serious note. Now, however, Hazard says:
“I just want to be on the pitch. Number 9, 10, I can play left-back if the manager wants, no problem. I just want to be on the pitch and try to give everything like I do every time.
“I’m happy with Chelsea. I am just thinking about the end of the season and the World Cup. I have got two years left on my contract so I am just happy.”
After signing from Lille for £32 million in 2012, Hazard has gone on to achieve a large amount of success with the blues. However, he has constantly been linked with a move to Real Madrid throughout his time at Stamford Bridge.
The links to Madrid have just increased since the player has only two years left on his contract. Hazard has so far been resisting the lure to sign a new £270,000 a week contract, which has been on the table for the last few months.
Antonio Conte has been able to get the best out of Hazard, but there are signs of a fallout between the duo over player positions in recent weeks. The 27-year-old has been the best player for Chelsea this season, but his performances have dropped over the last couple of weeks.
Willian has instead taken over the role as the main man at Chelsea.
Hazard has not scored in his last six appearances and this could be down to playing as a forward. In contrast, Willian has been able to come up with five goals in his last nine appearances. The football predictions do not expect Hazard to stay at Chelsea beyond the summer, as the interest from Real Madrid mounts.