Zinedine Zidane has never sought to make any secret of his admiration for Eden Hazard. The Frenchman has longed to see the Belgian wizard don the white of Real Madrid, having instructed Florentino PĂ©rez to sign him on two occasions.
The first of these came back in the summer of 2011, when Zizou planned on bringing Hazard to the Bernabéu with the help of the pull of RaphÀel Varane. Having failed to land his man first time round, Zidane tried again one year later, at a time when it looked to all intents and purposes as if Hazard was set to become a Chelsea player, with the Blues just waiting on Lille to give the final go-ahead.
Zidane’s appointment has sent the rumour mill into overdrive on the Chelsea forward’s future. In the last few days there has been no movement on this front, quite a contrast to the fanfare in the days prior to Mourinho’s departure from Stamford Bridge.
Hazard was one of the players singled out by the Portuguese boss, with the latter choosing to leave the 24-year-old speedster on the bench for several important fixtures. There was a breakdown in understanding between coach and player which led the Belgian star to set the wheels in motion on a move away from London, with the Bernabéu featuring top on his list of possible destinations. Indeed, the decision-makers at Real were given the option of opening negotiations to bring Hazard to the Spanish capital, a possibility which was placed, temporarily at least, on the back burner.
Even before Mourinho was relieved of his duties at Chelsea, Hazard’s mind was made up on seeking pastures new. His intention was, and still remains, to become a Real Madrid player, particularly if he can succeed in making a quick Chelsea exit. This is a player who has lost his appetite for the game, which Guus Hiddink is toiling to help him rediscover. In the meantime, Hazard has set about studying Spanish, preparing himself for all eventualities. The Chelsea man wants to play for Real Madrid, and if Zidane is in charge, the Belgian’s desire to grace La Liga is made even greater still.
Bron: Marca
