Hazard's love letter to Mourinho: 'His thinking is astonishing'
The Belgian star reveals his admiration for The Special One in a candid interview, while also tipping Cesc Fabregas as a future Chelsea manager.
Former Chelsea and Real Madrid star opens up about his most influential manager while offering surprising insights on Fabregas and Juventus talent Yildiz.
Mou tops Hazard’s managerial list
Despite working with some proper footballing royalty throughout his career—from Zidane to Ancelotti—Eden Hazard has revealed José Mourinho left the biggest impression on him during their time together at Chelsea.
Speaking to La Gazzetta, the recently retired Belgian winger couldn’t hide his admiration for the Portuguese tactician, with whom he spent two and a half seasons at Stamford Bridge between 2013 and 2015.
“His way of thinking and communicating ideas to players is astonishing,” Hazard confessed when asked about the best manager he’d worked with. High praise indeed from a player who’s been coached by some right Bobby Dazzlers in his time.
Their partnership proved fruitful on the silverware front too, with the pair clinching both a Premier League title and a League Cup together. During this period, Hazard began establishing himself as one of the world’s elite, notching 36 goals and 26 assists in 125 appearances under Mourinho’s guidance, even bagging the Premier League MVP award for the 2014-15 campaign.
Fabregas for the Chelsea hot seat?
Hazard also revealed his admiration for former teammate Cesc Fabregas, who’s currently cutting his managerial teeth at Como in Italy. The Belgian believes his old midfield partner has a brilliant future in the dugout.
“I told him he was one of the best midfielders in history and is destined to become one of the best managers,” Hazard explained, before admitting he’s even encouraged Fabregas to return to west London.
“I’m a Chelsea fan and want the best for the club—that’s why I dream of seeing Cesc on the bench there,” he added.
Yildiz to Madrid?
Interestingly, Hazard identified Juventus youngster Kenan Yildiz as a player who reminds him of himself. While his children are apparently “crazy” about the Turkish talent and hope to see him in the Premier League, Hazard has different ideas.
“He seems like a Real Madrid player to me,” the Belgian suggested, perhaps seeing echoes of his own career trajectory.
Hazard also reflected on his own approach to football and lifestyle, acknowledging he never followed the ultra-disciplined Cristiano Ronaldo model despite suggestions he should.
“I’ve never gone overboard, but I’ve always wanted to be Hazard on and off the pitch,” he admitted, explaining his philosophy of staying true to himself rather than changing his personality for success.