‘Eden Hazard was brilliant to manage’ — Roberto Di Matteo on the Belgian’s retirement

Eden Hazard has officially retired from the sport of football, leaving many, including, Roberto Di Matteo, wondering, ‘What if’?

Born with incredible creativity, mesmerising dribbling skills, an eye for the perfect pass and a footballing IQ envied by players from around the globe, the Belgian looked destined to solidify his status as one of the greatest to ever lace up the boots.

When the winger arrived at Chelsea following a bright start to his career at Lille, he stunned the fans at Stamford Bridge with his masterful ability and unrelenting will to win.

During his time with the London side, he guided ‘The Blues’ to two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and two Europa League championships, cementing his place as a club legend. And with the world at his feet, he signed on the dotted line for Real Madrid, in a move expected to take him right to the top of the footballing pyramid. Alas, it didn’t work out the way he’d have liked.

Due to a string of injuries and a drop in form, the La Louvière native tumbled down the hierarchy at the Bernabéu, and after several unsuccessful seasons, he announced his retirement on October 10, rendering his old Chelsea manager devastated.

Roberto Di Matteo is extremely disappointed with how things worked out for Eden Hazard

During their time together at Chelsea, Roberto Di Matteo and Eden Hazard forged a bond in steel, with the player excelling under the gaffer’s watchful eye. Therefore, it goes without saying that the Italian coach is gutted that his protege never reached his full potential.

‘In an exclusive interview with DAZN Bet, he said: “Hazard was brilliant to manage. He was very young when he arrived at Chelsea. But he was excited to be joining a big club in Europe. Hazard was brilliant in training and in games. He was so enthusiastic and fantastic to manage.

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”He used to dribble past two or three defenders, and we hardly had bad ones at Chelsea! It was a privilege to see a player like him in training.

“I’m not sure what happened after he left Chelsea to go to Real Madrid as he never showcased the performances he did so regularly in London. I’m not sure what happened, but it was a shame to see such a talented player retire so early.”

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