Zinedine Zidane has sparked a potential transfer saga between Chelsea and Real Madrid by claiming that he prefers the Blues’ Belgian sensation to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, widely regarded as the two best players in the world.
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Hazard signed a five year contract at Stamford Bridge in February, meaning his side are in no need to cash in before his current deal expires, but after a sensational season – in which he is being tipped for the PFA Player of the Year award – he is sure to attract envious glances from Europe’s elite.
Nevertheless, Zidane, now Real Madrid reserve manager, is likely to have ruffled a few feathers with his comments on the player.
Quoted in the Daily Mail, he said, “Obviously, there is Lionel Messi and Ronaldo, both of whom are spectacular, but I like Eden Hazard more.
“I like everything he does on the field. I like his behaviour, his decisiveness and love to see his progress every year.”
The PFA awards take place this weekend and Hazard is being tipped for glory along with Tottenham forward Harry Kane after a remarkable season in which he has scored 30 goals.
Hazard has been one of Chelsea’s main men this season, scoring 18 goals and assisting 10, catching the eyes of many over the season.