In a shock announcement, Belgian football star Eden Hazard on Tuesday (Oct&nbsp;10) announced his retirement from professional football, aged 32. Hazard, a former Chelsea winger had been released by Spanish giants Real Madrid at the end of&nbsp;last season and had been a free agent ever since.&nbsp;

His retirement brings curtains on a career that had all the makings of an all-timer but could not materialise due to injuries and an ill-fitting move to the Los Blancos.&nbsp;

"You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time. After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer," said Hazard in an emotional post.&nbsp;

"During my career I was lucky to meet great managers, coaches and teammates - thank you to everyone for these great times, I will miss you all," he added.&nbsp;

The talented winger expressed gratitude towards his former clubs and added:&nbsp;"I also want to thank the clubs I have played for: LOSC, Chelsea and Real Madrid; and thank the RBFA for my Belgian selection."

"A special thank you to my family, my friends, my advisors and the people who have been close to me in good times and bad."

As a Real Madrid player, Hazard only mustered seven goals and 12 assists in 76 appearances after making a $107 million move from Chelsea in June 2019. 
&nbsp;

Despite sedentary performances, Hazard managed to win the Champions League, a Club World Cup, a European Super Cup, two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey and two Spanish Super Cups.&nbsp;

However, for Chelsea, where Hazard moved for a modest&nbsp;$39 million fee in 2012, he went on to win the Premier League twice while scoring&nbsp;110 goals across 352 appearances including the winner in the 2019 Europa League final against Arsenal in his final appearance for the club.

<h2>Hazard's retirement from international football</h2>

Notably, Hazard had called it quits at the international level&nbsp;following the national side's dismal run at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year.&nbsp;

At the time, Hazard shared the news on his official Instagram handle by saying&nbsp;“a page turns today".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/star-forward-eden-hazard-announces-international-retirement-after-belgiums-dismal-fifa-world-cup-540919">Also read |&nbsp;Star forward Eden Hazard announces international retirement after Belgium's dismal FIFA World Cup</a>

Hazard was part of Belgium's golden generation which made it to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, in Russia but could not win the coveted trophy. The Qatar World Cup was an opportunity to go another step forward but Hazard's indifferent form meant that Belgium looked a pale shadow of its former self.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a shock announcement, Belgian football star Eden Hazard on Tuesday (Oct 10) announced his retirement from professional football, aged 32. Hazard, a former Chelsea winger had been released by Spanish giants Real Madrid at the end of last season and had been a free agent ever since.

In a shock announcement, Belgian football star Eden Hazard on Tuesday (Oct 10) announced his retirement from professional football, aged 32. Hazard, a former Chelsea winger had been released by Spanish giants Real Madrid at the end of last season and had been a free agent ever since. His retirement brings curtains on a career that had all the makings of an all-timer but could not materialise due to injuries and an ill-fitting move to the Los Blancos. "You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time. After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer," said Hazard in an emotional post. "During my career I was lucky to meet great managers, coaches and teammates - thank you to everyone for these great times, I will miss you all," he added. The talented winger expressed gratitude towards his former clubs and added: "I also want to thank the clubs I have played for: LOSC, Chelsea and Real Madrid; and thank the RBFA for my Belgian selection." "A special thank you to my family, my friends, my advisors and the people who have been close to me in good times and bad." As a Real Madrid player, Hazard only mustered seven goals and 12 assists in 76 appearances after making a $107 million move from Chelsea in June 2019. Despite sedentary performances, Hazard managed to win the Champions League, a Club World Cup, a European Super Cup, two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey and two Spanish Super Cups. However, for Chelsea, where Hazard moved for a modest $39 million fee in 2012, he went on to win the Premier League twice while scoring 110 goals across 352 appearances including the winner in the 2019 Europa League final against Arsenal in his final appearance for the club. Hazard's retirement from international football Notably, Hazard had called it quits at the international level following the national side's dismal run at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year. At the time, Hazard shared the news on his official Instagram handle by saying “a page turns today". Also read | Star forward Eden Hazard announces international retirement after Belgium's dismal FIFA World Cup Hazard was part of Belgium's golden generation which made it to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, in Russia but could not win the coveted trophy. The Qatar World Cup was an opportunity to go another step forward but Hazard's indifferent form meant that Belgium looked a pale shadow of its former self. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Eden Hazard retires at 32 from professional football after failing to land new club

In a shocking turn of events, French striker Karim Benzema has decided to leave Real Madrid this summer after spending 14 seasons with LaLiga giants. The club broke the news in an official statement, posted on its social media handles, saying, ‘Real Madrid CF and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to end his brilliant and unforgettable period as a player for our club.’

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🚨 BREAKING: Karim Benzema LEAVES Real Madrid. Official statement confirms club and player decision. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Benzema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Benzema</a> <a href="https://t.co/633WRATTYP">pic.twitter.com/633WRATTYP</a>
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Benzema joined Real Madrid in 2009 from Olympique Lyonnais, aged 21, and after 14 seasons and countless achievements, departs as one of the club’s most decorated players. This statement, meanwhile, came days after he, during a public presser, announced that ‘for now he is in Madrid’ amid reports of him moving to Saudi Pro League.

Real Madrid captain has won numerous trophies, 25 to be precise at the club, including 5 European Cups, 5 Club World Cups, 4 European Super Cups, 4 Leagues, 3 Copa del Rey and 4 Spanish Super Cups. Having won almost that is there to win in club football at this level Benzema leaves Madrid with 647 appearances and 353 goals – which is also the second-most by any player in the club’s history.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-confirm-lionel-messi-exit-after-two-seasons-as-argentine-star-yet-to-decide-on-future-600211">PSG confirm Lionel Messi exit after two seasons as Argentine star yet to decide on future</a>

As per the reports, Benzema has followed his former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo’s path of joining Saudi Pro League following a lucrative offer from the Gulf.

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Karim Benzema, invited to Saudi next week in order to prepare his move to Al Ittihad as new star of Arabian league. 🚨⚪️🇸🇦 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Benzema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Benzema</a> 
 
The announcement is expected next week if all goes to plan — it could be Wednesday. <a href="https://t.co/tRs20EXleU">pic.twitter.com/tRs20EXleU</a>
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Benzema is the current Ballon d’Or winner and also the UEFA Player of the Year, in addition to winning Pichichi Trophy 2022 and getting included in the FIFA FIFPRO Eleven. These awards followed him after a superb previous where Benzema helped Real Madrid win its 14th Champions League title – most by any team in the tournament’s history. With 15 goals in the competition he was the highest goal-scorer.

"Karim Benzema's career at Real Madrid has been an example of behaviour and professionalism, and has represented the values ​​of our club. Karim Benzema has earned the right to decide his future," the club statement added.

As announced by the club, “Next Tuesday, June 6, at 12:00 noon, an institutional act of tribute and farewell to Karim Benzema will take place at Real Madrid City, with the presence of our president Florentino Pérez.”

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Comunicado Oficial: Benzema.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadrid</a>.
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Benzema last scored against Rayo Vallecano in a 2-1 league win at home, as Madrid stood second on the LaLiga standings behind winners Barcelona with 77 points from 37 games.

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In a shocking turn of events, French striker Karim Benzema has decided to leave Real Madrid this summer after spending 14 seasons with LaLiga giants. The club broke the news in an official statement, posted on its social media handles, saying, ‘Real Madrid CF and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to end his brilliant and unforgettable period as a player for our club.

In a shocking turn of events, French striker Karim Benzema has decided to leave Real Madrid this summer after spending 14 seasons with LaLiga giants. The club broke the news in an official statement, posted on its social media handles, saying, ‘Real Madrid CF and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to end his brilliant and unforgettable period as a player for our club.’ 🚨 BREAKING: Karim Benzema LEAVES Real Madrid. Official statement confirms club and player decision. #Benzema pic.twitter.com/633WRATTYP — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 4, 2023 × Benzema joined Real Madrid in 2009 from Olympique Lyonnais, aged 21, and after 14 seasons and countless achievements, departs as one of the club’s most decorated players. This statement, meanwhile, came days after he, during a public presser, announced that ‘for now he is in Madrid’ amid reports of him moving to Saudi Pro League. Real Madrid captain has won numerous trophies, 25 to be precise at the club, including 5 European Cups, 5 Club World Cups, 4 European Super Cups, 4 Leagues, 3 Copa del Rey and 4 Spanish Super Cups. Having won almost that is there to win in club football at this level Benzema leaves Madrid with 647 appearances and 353 goals – which is also the second-most by any player in the club’s history. ALSO READ: PSG confirm Lionel Messi exit after two seasons as Argentine star yet to decide on future As per the reports, Benzema has followed his former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo’s path of joining Saudi Pro League following a lucrative offer from the Gulf. Karim Benzema, invited to Saudi next week in order to prepare his move to Al Ittihad as new star of Arabian league. 🚨⚪️🇸🇦 #Benzema The announcement is expected next week if all goes to plan — it could be Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/tRs20EXleU — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 4, 2023 × Benzema is the current Ballon d’Or winner and also the UEFA Player of the Year, in addition to winning Pichichi Trophy 2022 and getting included in the FIFA FIFPRO Eleven. These awards followed him after a superb previous where Benzema helped Real Madrid win its 14th Champions League title – most by any team in the tournament’s history. With 15 goals in the competition he was the highest goal-scorer. "Karim Benzema's career at Real Madrid has been an example of behaviour and professionalism, and has represented the values of our club. Karim Benzema has earned the right to decide his future," the club statement added. As announced by the club, “Next Tuesday, June 6, at 12:00 noon, an institutional act of tribute and farewell to Karim Benzema will take place at Real Madrid City, with the presence of our president Florentino Pérez.” Comunicado Oficial: Benzema.#RealMadrid. — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) June 4, 2023 × Benzema last scored against Rayo Vallecano in a 2-1 league win at home, as Madrid stood second on the LaLiga standings behind winners Barcelona with 77 points from 37 games. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Real Madrid confirm French striker Karim Benzema leaving club this summer after 14 seasons

Eden Hazard has retired from international football following Belgium' s group stage exit from the World Cup in Qatar. The 31-year-old made the announcement on social media.

Eden Hazard announces international retirement after Belgium's World Cup exit

On Wednesday (December 07), Belgium's star forward Eden Hazard called it quits from international football following the national side's dismal run in the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar. After Belgium's exit from the group stage of the showpiece event in the Middle East, Hazard has decided to step aside from international assignments. His form has been below-par for quite some time due to persistent injuries and it reflected in his overall run in the FIFA WC.&nbsp;

The 31-year-old Real Madrid forward shared the news on his official Instagram handle by saying&nbsp;“a page turns today". He captioned the post, “A page turns today… Thank you for your love. Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all this happiness shared since 2008. I have decided to put an end to my international career. The succession is ready. I will miss you….#onestensemble."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-cristiano-ronaldo-walks-off-the-pitch-while-teammates-celebrate-world-cup-victory-540866">WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo walks off the pitch while teammates celebrate World Cup victory</a>

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Hazard was part of Belgium's golden generation which made it to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, in Russia, but the star-studded line-up failed to make a mark this time around in Qatar. Following their unimpressive run, some big announcements were on the cards and Hazard's retirement is a major development as the national side will now look to revamp in the coming years.&nbsp;

Hazard appeared in 126 internationals,&nbsp;scoring 36 goals for Belgium. Talking about the national side, they ended their campaign in Qatar 2022 with a 0-0 stalemate versus Croatia, 1-0 win over Canada and a shocking 2-0 defeat at the hands of Morocco to not be able to advance to the Round of 16.

On Wednesday (December 07), Belgium's star forward Eden Hazard called it quits from international football following the national side's dismal run in the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

On Wednesday (December 07), Belgium's star forward Eden Hazard called it quits from international football following the national side's dismal run in the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar. After Belgium's exit from the group stage of the showpiece event in the Middle East, Hazard has decided to step aside from international assignments. His form has been below-par for quite some time due to persistent injuries and it reflected in his overall run in the FIFA WC. The 31-year-old Real Madrid forward shared the news on his official Instagram handle by saying “a page turns today". He captioned the post, “A page turns today… Thank you for your love. Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all this happiness shared since 2008. I have decided to put an end to my international career. The succession is ready. I will miss you….#onestensemble." Also read: WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo walks off the pitch while teammates celebrate World Cup victory View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eden Hazard (@hazardeden_10) × Hazard was part of Belgium's golden generation which made it to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, in Russia, but the star-studded line-up failed to make a mark this time around in Qatar. Following their unimpressive run, some big announcements were on the cards and Hazard's retirement is a major development as the national side will now look to revamp in the coming years. Hazard appeared in 126 internationals, scoring 36 goals for Belgium. Talking about the national side, they ended their campaign in Qatar 2022 with a 0-0 stalemate versus Croatia, 1-0 win over Canada and a shocking 2-0 defeat at the hands of Morocco to not be able to advance to the Round of 16.

Star forward Eden Hazard announces international retirement after Belgium's dismal FIFA World Cup

Germany's shock exit from the group stage of the World Cup for the second time in as many tournaments came as a shock to many. Now, reports are emerging that there is rift within the German camp as the political messaging by the group did not go down well with certain players in the dressing room.&nbsp;

According to media reports, some players in the German camp did not want to take part in the mouth-covering act to protest against FIFA's decision of banning the 'One Love' armbands.&nbsp;

TV host Esther Sedlaczek was the first to report the rumours of the dressing room rift when she interviewed&nbsp;German football director Oliver Bierhoff.

"Would you say that the One-Love armband could have been handled better? The fact is, according to our sources, not every player was OK with the gesture before the Japan game and that they worried that it would cause issues in the team," she asked Bierhoff.&nbsp;

According to local media reports,&nbsp;Bierhoff was first annoyed at the question and said,&nbsp;“You can certainly discuss that at some point. But after three games that have taken place on the pitch, do you think that One Love armband has played such a big role?”

He later admitted that the armband controversy could have been handled better.&nbsp;

“We could have done it better without a doubt. Whether that is decisive for the elimination is another matter.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-onelove-armband-row-ignites-again-536895">WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint: 'Onelove' armband row ignites again</a>

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Notably, on Sunday, former Arsenal boss and current&nbsp;FIFA head of global football development Arsene Wenger took a dig at Germany and said&nbsp;

“When you go to a World Cup you know you must not lose the first game,” said Wenger during a press conference before adding that teams with World Cup experience such as holders France won their opening matches.&nbsp;

“And the teams as well who were mentally ready, who had the mindset to focus on the competition and not on political demonstrations," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-arsene-wenger-takes-a-dig-at-teams-more-focused-on-political-demonstrations-539997">Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Arsene Wenger takes a dig at teams more focused on political demonstrations</a>

Similarly, Belgium's Eden Hazard argued the Germans should have stuck to football.

"They'd have done better not to do it (the protest) and to win instead. We are here to play football. I'm not here to send a political message. Other people are better placed for that. We want to be focused on football," said Hazard.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-here-to-play-football-belgiums-eden-hazard-on-germanys-protest-against-fifa-in-world-cup-537192">Read more:&nbsp;They'd have done better to win instead: Belgium's Eden Hazard on Germany's protest against FIFA in World Cup</a>

After German players covered their mouths, the German FA released a statement saying,&nbsp;“We wanted to use our captain’s armband to take a stand for values that we hold in the Germany national team: diversity and mutual respect.”

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Germany's shock exit from the group stage of the World Cup for the second time in as many tournaments came as a shock to many. Now, reports are emerging that there is rift within the German camp as the political messaging by the group did not go down well with certain players in the dressing room.

Germany's shock exit from the group stage of the World Cup for the second time in as many tournaments came as a shock to many. Now, reports are emerging that there is rift within the German camp as the political messaging by the group did not go down well with certain players in the dressing room. According to media reports, some players in the German camp did not want to take part in the mouth-covering act to protest against FIFA's decision of banning the 'One Love' armbands. TV host Esther Sedlaczek was the first to report the rumours of the dressing room rift when she interviewed German football director Oliver Bierhoff. "Would you say that the One-Love armband could have been handled better? The fact is, according to our sources, not every player was OK with the gesture before the Japan game and that they worried that it would cause issues in the team," she asked Bierhoff. According to local media reports, Bierhoff was first annoyed at the question and said, “You can certainly discuss that at some point. But after three games that have taken place on the pitch, do you think that One Love armband has played such a big role?” He later admitted that the armband controversy could have been handled better. “We could have done it better without a doubt. Whether that is decisive for the elimination is another matter.” WATCH | WION Fineprint: 'Onelove' armband row ignites again × Notably, on Sunday, former Arsenal boss and current FIFA head of global football development Arsene Wenger took a dig at Germany and said “When you go to a World Cup you know you must not lose the first game,” said Wenger during a press conference before adding that teams with World Cup experience such as holders France won their opening matches. “And the teams as well who were mentally ready, who had the mindset to focus on the competition and not on political demonstrations," he added. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Arsene Wenger takes a dig at teams more focused on political demonstrations Similarly, Belgium's Eden Hazard argued the Germans should have stuck to football. "They'd have done better not to do it (the protest) and to win instead. We are here to play football. I'm not here to send a political message. Other people are better placed for that. We want to be focused on football," said Hazard. Read more: They'd have done better to win instead: Belgium's Eden Hazard on Germany's protest against FIFA in World Cup After German players covered their mouths, the German FA released a statement saying, “We wanted to use our captain’s armband to take a stand for values that we hold in the Germany national team: diversity and mutual respect.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Rift emerges in German dressing room after World Cup mouth-covering protest: Reports

The German national team staged a silent protest ahead of their clash against Japan in the FIFA World Cup 2022 on Wednesday. In a symbolic gesture of being silenced, German players decided to cover their mouths with their hands while posing for the team photo ahead of kick-off against Japan.

Their gesture was apparently in protest against world football's governing body FIFA after its decision to bar seven teams from wearing the 'OneLove' armband expressing support for the LGBTQ+ community. Captains of seven teams, including Germany and Belgium, had decided to wear the special armband but had to ditch the plan after FIFA's warning.

FIFA threatened the teams that their captains will be booked even before the start of the match if they were sported wearing the armband. German players decided to express their disappointment against FIFA by protesting against the world body, however, Belgium's Eden Hazard argued the Germans should have stuck to football.

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When asked if his team planned to do something similar in their first game against Canada on Wednesday, Hazard said Belgium are in Qatar to play football and they would like to focus on doing only that. The Real Madrid star also took a dig at Germany stating that they should have focused on winning the game.

"They'd have done better not to do it (the protest) and to win instead," said Hazard.

"We are here to play football. I'm not here to send a political message. Other people are better placed for that. We want to be focused on football," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/switzerlands-breel-embolo-refuses-to-celebrate-after-scoring-winner-against-cameroon-in-fifa-wc-heres-why-537135">Switzerland's Breel Embolo refuses to celebrate after scoring winner against Cameroon in FIFA WC; Here's why</a>

While Germany suffered a shock 2-1 defeat against Japan despite taking the lead in the first through Iikay Gundogan, Belgium managed to secure a hard-fought 1-0 win against Canada. Michy Batshuayi scored in the 44th minute to hand Belgium a crucial victory and get their campaign off to a winning start.

Hazard started the game but failed to get on the scoresheet for his team. Belgium will be hoping to continue their winning run when they take on&nbsp;Morocco in their next game on Sunday (November 27).

The German national team staged a silent protest ahead of their clash against Japan in the FIFA World Cup 2022 on Wednesday. In a symbolic gesture of being silenced, German players decided to cover their mouths with their hands while posing for the team photo ahead of kick-off against Japan.

The German national team staged a silent protest ahead of their clash against Japan in the FIFA World Cup 2022 on Wednesday. In a symbolic gesture of being silenced, German players decided to cover their mouths with their hands while posing for the team photo ahead of kick-off against Japan. Their gesture was apparently in protest against world football's governing body FIFA after its decision to bar seven teams from wearing the 'OneLove' armband expressing support for the LGBTQ+ community. Captains of seven teams, including Germany and Belgium, had decided to wear the special armband but had to ditch the plan after FIFA's warning. FIFA threatened the teams that their captains will be booked even before the start of the match if they were sported wearing the armband. German players decided to express their disappointment against FIFA by protesting against the world body, however, Belgium's Eden Hazard argued the Germans should have stuck to football. Also Read: Apple planning to make Manchester United richest club in the world in a staggering $7 billion takeover When asked if his team planned to do something similar in their first game against Canada on Wednesday, Hazard said Belgium are in Qatar to play football and they would like to focus on doing only that. The Real Madrid star also took a dig at Germany stating that they should have focused on winning the game. "They'd have done better not to do it (the protest) and to win instead," said Hazard. "We are here to play football. I'm not here to send a political message. Other people are better placed for that. We want to be focused on football," he added. Also Read: Switzerland's Breel Embolo refuses to celebrate after scoring winner against Cameroon in FIFA WC; Here's why While Germany suffered a shock 2-1 defeat against Japan despite taking the lead in the first through Iikay Gundogan, Belgium managed to secure a hard-fought 1-0 win against Canada. Michy Batshuayi scored in the 44th minute to hand Belgium a crucial victory and get their campaign off to a winning start. Hazard started the game but failed to get on the scoresheet for his team. Belgium will be hoping to continue their winning run when they take on Morocco in their next game on Sunday (November 27).

They'd have done better to win instead: Belgium's Eden Hazard on Germany's protest against FIFA in World Cup

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said forward Eden Hazard still wants to succeed at the club despite being hampered by injuries and poor form since arriving in 2019.

Belgium international Hazard, 30, joined Real Madrid from Chelsea for a reported 120 million euros ($134.94 million). He scored four goals in 21 appearances in all competitions last season but has yet to find the net this campaign, having played 11 times so far.

Hazard has not started a game since their shock 2-1 Champions League home loss to Sheriff Tiraspol in September and was not included in the squad for Wednesday's return match in Moldova.\

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"I have known Eden for a long time and know that his dream was to play for Real Madrid. It's a shame it hasn't worked out yet as everyone would like it to," Courtois said.

"I can see that he has got the desire, joy and he wants to help the team. He is looking to improve. It's not easy to take back your best form when you haven't played for the last two and a half years.

"He has showed in his entire career he is one of the best players in the world. He hasn't been able to show it lately, but that talent is not gone and I am sure he will get back, so we cannot kill him believing he is an average player because he is not."

Real Madrid top Champions League Group D with nine points from four games, two points ahead of Inter Milan with Sheriff a point further back in third.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said forward Eden Hazard still wants to succeed at the club despite being hampered by injuries and poor form since arriving in 2019.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said forward Eden Hazard still wants to succeed at the club despite being hampered by injuries and poor form since arriving in 2019. Belgium international Hazard, 30, joined Real Madrid from Chelsea for a reported 120 million euros ($134.94 million). He scored four goals in 21 appearances in all competitions last season but has yet to find the net this campaign, having played 11 times so far. Hazard has not started a game since their shock 2-1 Champions League home loss to Sheriff Tiraspol in September and was not included in the squad for Wednesday's return match in Moldova.\ ALSO READ | France and Real Madrid star Karim Benzema gets one-year suspended jail term "I have known Eden for a long time and know that his dream was to play for Real Madrid. It's a shame it hasn't worked out yet as everyone would like it to," Courtois said. "I can see that he has got the desire, joy and he wants to help the team. He is looking to improve. It's not easy to take back your best form when you haven't played for the last two and a half years. "He has showed in his entire career he is one of the best players in the world. He hasn't been able to show it lately, but that talent is not gone and I am sure he will get back, so we cannot kill him believing he is an average player because he is not." Real Madrid top Champions League Group D with nine points from four games, two points ahead of Inter Milan with Sheriff a point further back in third.

'He wants to help the team': Thibaut Courtois reveals Eden Hazard still wants to succeed at Real Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta in top 10 world's highest-paid footballers

Belgium captain Eden Hazard and playmaker Kevin de Bruyne are still doubtful for their European Championship quarter-final against Italy, coach Roberto Martinez said on Thursday.

The availability of both players has Belgium on tenterhooks ahead of the match in Munich on Friday after they were forced off the pitch injured in the last-16 clash with Portugal on Sunday.

De Bruyne suffered an ankle injury while Hazard pulled a hamstring and they have not trained this week, including on Thursday morning before the team flew to Germany.

"It will be difficult for Eden to play tomorrow because of a soft tissue injury and maybe a little different for Kevin who's had a ligament problem," Martinez told a news conference.

"We know that we are fighting against time but we are going to take until the last minute to take the decision. We have seen an improvement but we’ll only see tomorrow whether they can be involved or not. Unfortunately, we cannot make a decision at the moment."

Martinez said it was a pity the two teams were meeting at this stage of the tournament.

"We are the best two teams statistically at the tournament. Two teams that have each won a record 14 games in a row in the European Championship," Martinez said of their runs in the qualifiers and the tournament itself.

"It’s a shame we have to face each other in the quarter-final. But it’s the quality of this tournament I suppose and we need to be ready for it. There are not a lot of secrets, both sides look like club teams and tomorrow’s game is going to be decided by small details."

It is also a chance for Martinez to reprise his shock success over Italy coach Robert Mancini in 2013 when he was manager of Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup final against a Manchester City side led by Mancini.

"If you put the final into context it was the England champions against a small team for whom just getting to the final was a success. I don’t think anyone expected that and since then it’s always been a story that has been stimulating and inspiring for other clubs," Martinez added.

Belgium captain Eden Hazard and playmaker Kevin de Bruyne are still doubtful for their European Championship quarter-final against Italy, coach Roberto Martinez said on Thursday.

Belgium captain Eden Hazard and playmaker Kevin de Bruyne are still doubtful for their European Championship quarter-final against Italy, coach Roberto Martinez said on Thursday. The availability of both players has Belgium on tenterhooks ahead of the match in Munich on Friday after they were forced off the pitch injured in the last-16 clash with Portugal on Sunday. De Bruyne suffered an ankle injury while Hazard pulled a hamstring and they have not trained this week, including on Thursday morning before the team flew to Germany. "It will be difficult for Eden to play tomorrow because of a soft tissue injury and maybe a little different for Kevin who's had a ligament problem," Martinez told a news conference. "We know that we are fighting against time but we are going to take until the last minute to take the decision. We have seen an improvement but we’ll only see tomorrow whether they can be involved or not. Unfortunately, we cannot make a decision at the moment." Martinez said it was a pity the two teams were meeting at this stage of the tournament. "We are the best two teams statistically at the tournament. Two teams that have each won a record 14 games in a row in the European Championship," Martinez said of their runs in the qualifiers and the tournament itself. "It’s a shame we have to face each other in the quarter-final. But it’s the quality of this tournament I suppose and we need to be ready for it. There are not a lot of secrets, both sides look like club teams and tomorrow’s game is going to be decided by small details." It is also a chance for Martinez to reprise his shock success over Italy coach Robert Mancini in 2013 when he was manager of Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup final against a Manchester City side led by Mancini. "If you put the final into context it was the England champions against a small team for whom just getting to the final was a success. I don’t think anyone expected that and since then it’s always been a story that has been stimulating and inspiring for other clubs," Martinez added.

Football: Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard doubtful for Belgium’s Euro 2020 quarter-final

Real Madrid player Eden Hazard has come out and communicated his longing to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu and battle for this spot in the beginning XI. The 30-year-old winger has had a physical issue loaded time at Real Madrid since the time he left Chelsea for a cosmic charge of £103 million.&nbsp;

Be that as it may, Eden Hazard is quick to show his actual potential to the Real Madrid fans whenever they are permitted back inside the Santiago Bernabeu. He likewise trusts that his time in Spain isn't finished and won't leave Madrid as a failure.&nbsp;

In a conversation with&nbsp;Het Nieuwsblad, Eden Hazard said:&nbsp; "It didn't occur to me for a second that it would be better for me to leave. I won't leave there as a failure. I only want to show that I'm made for Real Madrid. The last two years have been difficult, I've been at Madrid without really being at Madrid, you know... We've played in a stadium without fans, and I signed to play at a full Bernabeu."

Hazard has said he can possibly make the most of his football on the off chance that he is sans injury, which hasn't been the situation since joining Real Madrid. The 30-year-old has confronted a great deal of analysis in regards to his demonstrable skill from the Los Blancos devoted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-he-was-gone-denmark-team-doctor-confirms-christian-eriksen-suffered-cardiac-arrest-391225" hreflang="en">Football: 'He was gone...' - Denmark team doctor confirms Christian Eriksen suffered 'cardiac arrest'</a>

In any case, Hazard accepts that getting back from numerous injuries is troublesome. He added:&nbsp;

"I'm only myself when I can enjoy myself on the pitch. That hasn't happened in the last two years at Madrid. If you have one or two injuries you can flip the switch, you recover to come back stronger, but if it's five, six, seven it's much more difficult mentally. But I keep going."

Eden Hazard will work under new manager Carlo Ancelotti when he gets back to Real Madrid from Euro 2020. Carlo Ancelotti has effectively lauded the Belgian&nbsp;and that he may have a more promising time to come under the new manager. At his divulging as Real Madrid supervisor, Carlo Ancelotti said:&nbsp;"He's a top player. He's had problems, the first season he had an important injury... this could be the year for him to reach his potential."

Real Madrid player Eden Hazard has come out and communicated his longing to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu and battle for this spot in the beginning XI. The 30-year-old winger has had a physical issue loaded time at Real Madrid since the time he left Chelsea for a cosmic charge of £103 million.

Real Madrid player Eden Hazard has come out and communicated his longing to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu and battle for this spot in the beginning XI. The 30-year-old winger has had a physical issue loaded time at Real Madrid since the time he left Chelsea for a cosmic charge of £103 million. Be that as it may, Eden Hazard is quick to show his actual potential to the Real Madrid fans whenever they are permitted back inside the Santiago Bernabeu. He likewise trusts that his time in Spain isn't finished and won't leave Madrid as a failure. In a conversation with Het Nieuwsblad, Eden Hazard said: "It didn't occur to me for a second that it would be better for me to leave. I won't leave there as a failure. I only want to show that I'm made for Real Madrid. The last two years have been difficult, I've been at Madrid without really being at Madrid, you know... We've played in a stadium without fans, and I signed to play at a full Bernabeu." Hazard has said he can possibly make the most of his football on the off chance that he is sans injury, which hasn't been the situation since joining Real Madrid. The 30-year-old has confronted a great deal of analysis in regards to his demonstrable skill from the Los Blancos devoted. ALSO READ: Football: 'He was gone...' - Denmark team doctor confirms Christian Eriksen suffered 'cardiac arrest' In any case, Hazard accepts that getting back from numerous injuries is troublesome. He added: "I'm only myself when I can enjoy myself on the pitch. That hasn't happened in the last two years at Madrid. If you have one or two injuries you can flip the switch, you recover to come back stronger, but if it's five, six, seven it's much more difficult mentally. But I keep going." Eden Hazard will work under new manager Carlo Ancelotti when he gets back to Real Madrid from Euro 2020. Carlo Ancelotti has effectively lauded the Belgian and that he may have a more promising time to come under the new manager. At his divulging as Real Madrid supervisor, Carlo Ancelotti said: "He's a top player. He's had problems, the first season he had an important injury... this could be the year for him to reach his potential."

Football: I won't leave Real Madrid as a 'failure' - Eden Hazard

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois trusts that Eden Hazard will '10 per cent' stay at the club past the impending summer transfer window.&nbsp;

The Real Madrid winger has had two irksome, injury-raze seasons. He has simply had the option to show up for Los Blancos, scoring five goals and eight assists. Subsequently, bits of gossip about a potential exit have been getting out and about.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, Eden Hazard and Real Madrid's&nbsp;colleague Thibaut Courtois believes Hazard will remain at the club. The goalkeeper likewise added that Hazard would not like to leave Real Madrid, in opposition to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him.&nbsp;

However, Hazard's Belgium and Real Madrid teammate Thibaut Courtois believes the 30-year-old will stay at the club. The goalkeeper also added that Hazard doesn't want to leave Real Madrid, contrary to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him.

In an interview with Le Soir Thibaut Courtois said: "I'm 100 per cent&nbsp;sure he's staying. He doesn't want to move. Only the Madrid press writes about the desire to leave. He wants to continue, play free of injuries and win titles" - he said.

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At Real Madrid, there is criticism all the time and for everyone. Gareth Bale was criticized, but he won the Champions League and scored a double in the final in Kyiv.

"We all know that in Madrid there is pressure and criticism from the press and the fans. But Eden can handle that. I know him well enough to say it. He can still change everything. He still wants to be an important player for Madrid and win titles" - he added.

With Carlo Ancelotti assuming control over Real Madrid's manager situation from Zinedine Zidane, Eden Hazard has one more freedom to demonstrate his qualifications at the club.&nbsp;

The winger as of late conceded that Carlo Ancelotti's arrangement is 'uplifting news' for him as he anticipates playing under the Italian strategist.&nbsp;

"Everyone at Real Madrid knows what Ancelotti has brought to the club. He won the Champions League with this group and he knows a lot of the players. We know that he is a coach with a lot of experience" - he said.

"He knows the city and the fans. I think we can do great things together. I don't know him personally, but from what I've heard of him he's a very nice person who just wants to win, and that's what we all want. We'll have the chance to work together. It's good news for me" - he added

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois trusts that Eden Hazard will '10 per cent' stay at the club past the impending summer transfer window. The Real Madrid winger has had two irksome, injury-raze seasons.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois trusts that Eden Hazard will '10 per cent' stay at the club past the impending summer transfer window. The Real Madrid winger has had two irksome, injury-raze seasons. He has simply had the option to show up for Los Blancos, scoring five goals and eight assists. Subsequently, bits of gossip about a potential exit have been getting out and about. Nonetheless, Eden Hazard and Real Madrid's colleague Thibaut Courtois believes Hazard will remain at the club. The goalkeeper likewise added that Hazard would not like to leave Real Madrid, in opposition to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him. However, Hazard's Belgium and Real Madrid teammate Thibaut Courtois believes the 30-year-old will stay at the club. The goalkeeper also added that Hazard doesn't want to leave Real Madrid, contrary to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him. In an interview with Le Soir Thibaut Courtois said: "I'm 100 per cent sure he's staying. He doesn't want to move. Only the Madrid press writes about the desire to leave. He wants to continue, play free of injuries and win titles" - he said. ALSO READ: Football: N'Golo Kante deserves to win Ballon d'Or, says Paul Pogba At Real Madrid, there is criticism all the time and for everyone. Gareth Bale was criticized, but he won the Champions League and scored a double in the final in Kyiv. "We all know that in Madrid there is pressure and criticism from the press and the fans. But Eden can handle that. I know him well enough to say it. He can still change everything. He still wants to be an important player for Madrid and win titles" - he added. With Carlo Ancelotti assuming control over Real Madrid's manager situation from Zinedine Zidane, Eden Hazard has one more freedom to demonstrate his qualifications at the club. The winger as of late conceded that Carlo Ancelotti's arrangement is 'uplifting news' for him as he anticipates playing under the Italian strategist. "Everyone at Real Madrid knows what Ancelotti has brought to the club. He won the Champions League with this group and he knows a lot of the players. We know that he is a coach with a lot of experience" - he said. "He knows the city and the fans. I think we can do great things together. I don't know him personally, but from what I've heard of him he's a very nice person who just wants to win, and that's what we all want. We'll have the chance to work together. It's good news for me" - he added

Football: Eden Hazard will 100% stay at Real Madrid - Thibaut Courtois

Eden Hazard will miss Real Madrid's must-win final match of LaLiga season due to injury. The match will be played against Villarreal on Saturday.&nbsp;

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Zinedine Zidane and Co. need to win this match as they will have a shot to successfully defend their La Liga title. However, their hope also lies on relegation-threatened Valladolid who will play table-toppers Atletico Madrid.&nbsp;

Atletico need to lose this match and Real Madrid need to win in order for Los Blancos to lift their only trophy of the season.

Eden Hazard has had a nightmare of a season. The Belgian has missed most of the season due to a string of injuries but has been playing regularly.&nbsp;

“He didn’t practice with the squad and we are not going to take any risks,” Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Friday.

Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos will return to the squad recovering from an injury that has kept him out since March.

Diego Simeone's Atletico have a major shot to lift the La Liga trophy for the first time since 2014, as they don't have any major setbacks.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard will miss Real Madrid's must-win final match of LaLiga season due to injury. The match will be played against Villarreal on Saturday. ALSO READ: Football: 'Everybody loves Harry Kane': Chelsea's manager Thomas Tuchel Zinedine Zidane and Co.

Eden Hazard will miss Real Madrid's must-win final match of LaLiga season due to injury. The match will be played against Villarreal on Saturday. ALSO READ: Football: 'Everybody loves Harry Kane': Chelsea's manager Thomas Tuchel Zinedine Zidane and Co. need to win this match as they will have a shot to successfully defend their La Liga title. However, their hope also lies on relegation-threatened Valladolid who will play table-toppers Atletico Madrid. Atletico need to lose this match and Real Madrid need to win in order for Los Blancos to lift their only trophy of the season. Eden Hazard has had a nightmare of a season. The Belgian has missed most of the season due to a string of injuries but has been playing regularly. “He didn’t practice with the squad and we are not going to take any risks,” Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Friday. Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos will return to the squad recovering from an injury that has kept him out since March. Diego Simeone's Atletico have a major shot to lift the La Liga trophy for the first time since 2014, as they don't have any major setbacks.

Real Madrid's Eden Hazard to miss La Liga finale due to injury

Real Madrid forward Eden Hazard has apologised to the club's supporters for appearing to laugh with Chelsea players after his former club knocked the Spanish giants out of the Champions League on Wednesday.

Chelsea beat Real 2-0 in their semi-final second leg for a 3-1 win on aggregate and Hazard, who joined Real from Chelsea in 2019 as their record signing, failed to impress in either game after recently returning from injury.

Shortly after the final whistle, television cameras showed the Belgian congratulating and laughing with Chelsea players Kurt Zouma and Edouard Mendy. The footage, shown on social media, drew criticism from Real fans and the Spanish media.

"I am sorry. I have read lots of opinions about me today and it was not my intention to offend any Real Madrid fans," Hazard posted on his Instagram story on Thursday.

Hazard's two seasons in Spain have been riddled with injuries that have prevented him from hitting top form.

"It has always been my dream to play for Real Madrid and I came here to win," he added. "The season is not over and together we must battle for La Liga. Hala Madrid."

Real could still end the season winning the La Liga title. They are second in the table with 74 points from 34 games, two points behind local rivals Atletico Madrid.

Real Madrid forward Eden Hazard has apologised to the club's supporters for appearing to laugh with Chelsea players after his former club knocked the Spanish giants out of the Champions League on Wednesday.

Real Madrid forward Eden Hazard has apologised to the club's supporters for appearing to laugh with Chelsea players after his former club knocked the Spanish giants out of the Champions League on Wednesday. Chelsea beat Real 2-0 in their semi-final second leg for a 3-1 win on aggregate and Hazard, who joined Real from Chelsea in 2019 as their record signing, failed to impress in either game after recently returning from injury. Shortly after the final whistle, television cameras showed the Belgian congratulating and laughing with Chelsea players Kurt Zouma and Edouard Mendy. The footage, shown on social media, drew criticism from Real fans and the Spanish media. "I am sorry. I have read lots of opinions about me today and it was not my intention to offend any Real Madrid fans," Hazard posted on his Instagram story on Thursday. Hazard's two seasons in Spain have been riddled with injuries that have prevented him from hitting top form. "It has always been my dream to play for Real Madrid and I came here to win," he added. "The season is not over and together we must battle for La Liga. Hala Madrid." Real could still end the season winning the La Liga title. They are second in the table with 74 points from 34 games, two points behind local rivals Atletico Madrid.

Eden Hazard apologises for laughing with Chelsea players after Real Madrid defeat

Real Madrid were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League after a 2-0 (aggregate 3-1) defeat to Chelsea in the second leg of their semi-final tie in the Champions League. However, what further infuriated Madrid fans was Real Madrid winger and former Blues Eden Hazard's reaction after the final whistle.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-real-madrid-outclassed-by-chelsea-as-defeat-raises-fresh-doubts-around-old-guard-383127" hreflang="en">Champions League: Real Madrid outclassed by Chelsea as defeat raises fresh doubts around old guard</a>

Several fans took to social media and criticised the Belgian player for his performance and final whistle reaction against Chelsea. As per Marca, Real Madrid were furious after seeing Eden Hazard laughing and smiling at full time as he greeted some of his former teammates.

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Eden Hazard couldn't help but be happy for his former club 🔵 
 
(🎥: <a href="https://twitter.com/btsportfootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@btsportfootball</a>)<a href="https://t.co/xrCdFTG4BW">pic.twitter.com/xrCdFTG4BW</a>
— B/R Football (@brfootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/brfootball/status/1390069325592154116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Eden Hazard, who left Chelsea to be a part of Real Madrid in a deal worth £100 million, is having a tough time with the Spanish club as he was ruled out for a lengthy period of time due to a knee injury. Hazard has failed to find some form in his game due to which several RM fans expressed their anger towards the player and urging them to sell him.&nbsp;

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Eden Hazard just got knocked out of the Champions League and this is his reaction after the game. This man doesn’t care 😂 <a href="https://t.co/bzLtcf14GH">pic.twitter.com/bzLtcf14GH</a>
— FutbolBible (@FutbolBible) <a href="https://twitter.com/FutbolBible/status/1390049134418317315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Eden Hazard in the chelsea lockeroom after full time 🥂 <a href="https://t.co/a6ToV7osTn">pic.twitter.com/a6ToV7osTn</a>
— ◣vs◢ (@SW6LORD) <a href="https://twitter.com/SW6LORD/status/1390058276230864899?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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April 2012: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final 
April 2013: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final 
May 2021: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final 
 
Eden Hazard doesn't deserve to wear Real Madrid Jersey. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HazardOut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HazardOut</a> <a href="https://t.co/9xbDhdToau">pic.twitter.com/9xbDhdToau</a>
— RMadridbabe (@RMadridBabe) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMadridBabe/status/1390058182882508801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Two players that doesn't deserve to be at my club! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HazardOut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HazardOut</a> <a href="https://t.co/eQLW7jawBD">pic.twitter.com/eQLW7jawBD</a>
— Hazard Out ‼️ (@lucasvazquez_91) <a href="https://twitter.com/lucasvazquez_91/status/1390069093290569728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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It's a shame that this player wears the Ronaldo, Raul Juanito jersey<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hazardout?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hazardout</a> <a href="https://t.co/vsYknYJrEF">pic.twitter.com/vsYknYJrEF</a>
— oussama (@uss_lk) <a href="https://twitter.com/uss_lk/status/1390072516878782467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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2 Seasons 
4 Goals 
€146m Transfer fee (included additional fees) 
€15m Salary per season 
Gave him Iconic Number 7 
 
In Return, He's Laughing with his friends after UCL Elimination in Semi-Final. 
 
At least Show some RESPECT for the badge You Wear on your chest. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HazardOut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HazardOut</a> <a href="https://t.co/j04eEBuwJS">pic.twitter.com/j04eEBuwJS</a>
— RMadridbabe (@RMadridBabe) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMadridBabe/status/1390239767376302081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Zinedine Zidane defended Hazard after putting a poor show against the Blues and said: "Eden has to get his confidence back and he needs to keep playing. Little by little, we have to make sure he recovers."

The coach also admitted record signing Hazard had been off the pace during the game but said the only way for the Belgian finally to thrive after two seasons with Real riddled with injuries was to keep playing.

"We were playing a semi-final and every player was ready, they wouldn't have played if they were not," Zidane told reporters.

"We can all be proud of the players, we gave it our best shot and we got here, to within one step of the final. Chelsea put in a great performance and you have to congratulate them."

Real Madrid were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League after a 2-0 (aggregate 3-1) defeat to Chelsea in the second leg of their semi-final tie in the Champions League.

Real Madrid were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League after a 2-0 (aggregate 3-1) defeat to Chelsea in the second leg of their semi-final tie in the Champions League. However, what further infuriated Madrid fans was Real Madrid winger and former Blues Eden Hazard's reaction after the final whistle. ALSO READ: Champions League: Real Madrid outclassed by Chelsea as defeat raises fresh doubts around old guard Several fans took to social media and criticised the Belgian player for his performance and final whistle reaction against Chelsea. As per Marca, Real Madrid were furious after seeing Eden Hazard laughing and smiling at full time as he greeted some of his former teammates. Eden Hazard couldn't help but be happy for his former club 🔵 (🎥: @btsportfootball)pic.twitter.com/xrCdFTG4BW — B/R Football (@brfootball) May 5, 2021 × Eden Hazard, who left Chelsea to be a part of Real Madrid in a deal worth £100 million, is having a tough time with the Spanish club as he was ruled out for a lengthy period of time due to a knee injury. Hazard has failed to find some form in his game due to which several RM fans expressed their anger towards the player and urging them to sell him. Eden Hazard just got knocked out of the Champions League and this is his reaction after the game. This man doesn’t care 😂 pic.twitter.com/bzLtcf14GH — FutbolBible (@FutbolBible) May 5, 2021 × Eden Hazard in the chelsea lockeroom after full time 🥂 pic.twitter.com/a6ToV7osTn — ◣vs◢ (@SW6LORD) May 5, 2021 × April 2012: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final April 2013: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final May 2021: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final Eden Hazard doesn't deserve to wear Real Madrid Jersey. #HazardOut pic.twitter.com/9xbDhdToau — RMadridbabe (@RMadridBabe) May 5, 2021 × Two players that doesn't deserve to be at my club! #HazardOut pic.twitter.com/eQLW7jawBD — Hazard Out ‼️ (@lucasvazquez_91) May 5, 2021 × It's a shame that this player wears the Ronaldo, Raul Juanito jersey#hazardout pic.twitter.com/vsYknYJrEF — oussama (@uss_lk) May 5, 2021 × 2 Seasons 4 Goals €146m Transfer fee (included additional fees) €15m Salary per season Gave him Iconic Number 7 In Return, He's Laughing with his friends after UCL Elimination in Semi-Final. At least Show some RESPECT for the badge You Wear on your chest. #HazardOut pic.twitter.com/j04eEBuwJS — RMadridbabe (@RMadridBabe) May 6, 2021 × Zinedine Zidane defended Hazard after putting a poor show against the Blues and said: "Eden has to get his confidence back and he needs to keep playing. Little by little, we have to make sure he recovers." The coach also admitted record signing Hazard had been off the pace during the game but said the only way for the Belgian finally to thrive after two seasons with Real riddled with injuries was to keep playing. "We were playing a semi-final and every player was ready, they wouldn't have played if they were not," Zidane told reporters. "We can all be proud of the players, we gave it our best shot and we got here, to within one step of the final. Chelsea put in a great performance and you have to congratulate them."

#Hazardout: Real Madrid fans fume after Belgian's reaction following full time against Chelsea

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane says he believes Eden Hazard is "going to do very well" at the club as the Belgium star prepares for his latest comeback from injury.

Hazard has missed Madrid's past seven games with a thigh problem but could return, as could captain Sergio Ramos, against Elche on Saturday, a timely boost ahead of next week's Champions League clash with Atalanta.

"We're happy we're getting back Sergio and Eden for tomorrow. Our idea is they get some minutes, and then we'll see," Zidane told a news conference Friday.

Signed for 100 million euros from Chelsea in July 2019, Hazard has been restricted to just nine starts this season. He has suffered a series of injuries and also missed a game after testing positive for Covid-19.

"He looks well physically and emotionally. He's overcome all these injures, these aches and now he looks good, that's why he's with us and I hope he can play," said Zidane.

"He had a lengthy injury, that he hadn't had before, but he has a long contract and I think he's a player who, when he gets fit, is going to be great, I'm certain of it."

"It's difficult when a player has an injury and isn't 100%, but I'm sure he's going to do very well here," added Zidane. &nbsp;

Ramos, who turns 35 later this month, is available again following knee surgery in February. He hasn't played since January 14 and is out of contract at the end of the season.

"I don't know what's going to happen. What we want is for Sergio to stay here, that's what I can say as coach because he's an important player for us," said Zidane.

Ramos said Thursday "there is no news" regarding an extension but spoke of his desire to play until he is 40.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane says he believes Eden Hazard is "going to do very well" at the club as the Belgium star prepares for his latest comeback from injury.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane says he believes Eden Hazard is "going to do very well" at the club as the Belgium star prepares for his latest comeback from injury. Hazard has missed Madrid's past seven games with a thigh problem but could return, as could captain Sergio Ramos, against Elche on Saturday, a timely boost ahead of next week's Champions League clash with Atalanta. "We're happy we're getting back Sergio and Eden for tomorrow. Our idea is they get some minutes, and then we'll see," Zidane told a news conference Friday. Signed for 100 million euros from Chelsea in July 2019, Hazard has been restricted to just nine starts this season. He has suffered a series of injuries and also missed a game after testing positive for Covid-19. "He looks well physically and emotionally. He's overcome all these injures, these aches and now he looks good, that's why he's with us and I hope he can play," said Zidane. "He had a lengthy injury, that he hadn't had before, but he has a long contract and I think he's a player who, when he gets fit, is going to be great, I'm certain of it." "It's difficult when a player has an injury and isn't 100%, but I'm sure he's going to do very well here," added Zidane. Ramos, who turns 35 later this month, is available again following knee surgery in February. He hasn't played since January 14 and is out of contract at the end of the season. "I don't know what's going to happen. What we want is for Sergio to stay here, that's what I can say as coach because he's an important player for us," said Zidane. Ramos said Thursday "there is no news" regarding an extension but spoke of his desire to play until he is 40.

Zidane confident Hazard will be success at Madrid

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19.&nbsp;

Zidane's position has come under scrutiny again after Wednesday's defeat by third-tier side Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey but Madrid responded at Mendizorroza without their coach, or their captain Sergio Ramos, who was out with a knee injury.

Goals from Casemiro, Karim Benzema and Hazard put Madrid three up at half-time and while Alaves briefly threatened a fightback when Joselu headed in, Benzema added a second to put the result beyond doubt.

The victory is only Real Madrid's second in six matches and leaves them four points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand and play Valencia at home on Sunday.&nbsp;

"The goals are good for the confidence, for everyone," said Benzema. "It's been a tough week for us because we always have to win, always have to be on the up. There's always pressure. Today it went well, not just for me, for everyone."

Zidane was confirmed to have tested positive on Friday, leaving his assistant David Bettoni to take charge in the dug-out, although Bettoni was pictured on the telephone in the second half.&nbsp;

"He was very happy with the attitude of the team," said Bettoni when asked what Zidane had told him after the game. "He told me to congratulate the players, as he would have done if he was with us."

Bettoni took off Hazard as Alaves were gaining belief early in the second period but the Belgian enjoyed a positive outing overall that Zidane will hope is the start of a revival.&nbsp;

The 29-year-old has had a nightmare year and a half in Spain, with this only his third goal in La Liga and his first in the league away from home since joining from Chelsea for 100 million euros.&nbsp;

"We have to have more patience, it's true that at Real Madrid patience is difficult," said Bettoni. "I think the best version of Hazard has been seen a little today and that every game we'll see it a bit more."

Benzema was the chief beneficiary as Madrid forgot their recent woes in attack.&nbsp;

There were strong performances too from Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in midfield, the latter providing a handful of supreme passes, one of which led to Benzema's second and Madrid's fourth.&nbsp;

Madrid's first half was probably their best of the season, prompted by an early goal from Casemiro to boost confidence, the Brazilian heading Kroos' corner inside the post.&nbsp;

Hazard scuffed a chance wide but was involved in the second as he tried to flick Lucas Vazquez's pass into Benzema but feathering it was enough, with Benzema given space to fire into the top left-hand corner.&nbsp;

Hazard made it three four minutes later. Kroos looked up and as Alaves pushed out, Hazard surged in behind, the ball looping over for him to control and finish past Fernando Pachecho.&nbsp;

Alaves pushed hard after half-time and were given hope when Joselu headed in from Lucas Perez's free-kick. Yet the comeback was short-lived as Benzema raced onto another curling Modric pass out to the left, nipped inside and stroked into the far corner.

Earlier, Youssef En-Nesyri scored his second hat-trick in four games as Sevilla dispatched Cadiz 3-0 to move up to third.

The Moroccan striker's treble takes him level with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the top of the league's scoring charts with 11 goals and makes it seven for him in the last four matches.

Cadiz, meanwhile, slip to ninth, below Real Betis, who came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad by scoring twice in the last five minutes.

Real Sociedad drop to sixth, three points adrift of Barca in fourth. Betis climb to eighth.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19.

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19. Zidane's position has come under scrutiny again after Wednesday's defeat by third-tier side Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey but Madrid responded at Mendizorroza without their coach, or their captain Sergio Ramos, who was out with a knee injury. Goals from Casemiro, Karim Benzema and Hazard put Madrid three up at half-time and while Alaves briefly threatened a fightback when Joselu headed in, Benzema added a second to put the result beyond doubt. The victory is only Real Madrid's second in six matches and leaves them four points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand and play Valencia at home on Sunday. "The goals are good for the confidence, for everyone," said Benzema. "It's been a tough week for us because we always have to win, always have to be on the up. There's always pressure. Today it went well, not just for me, for everyone." Zidane was confirmed to have tested positive on Friday, leaving his assistant David Bettoni to take charge in the dug-out, although Bettoni was pictured on the telephone in the second half. "He was very happy with the attitude of the team," said Bettoni when asked what Zidane had told him after the game. "He told me to congratulate the players, as he would have done if he was with us." Bettoni took off Hazard as Alaves were gaining belief early in the second period but the Belgian enjoyed a positive outing overall that Zidane will hope is the start of a revival. The 29-year-old has had a nightmare year and a half in Spain, with this only his third goal in La Liga and his first in the league away from home since joining from Chelsea for 100 million euros. "We have to have more patience, it's true that at Real Madrid patience is difficult," said Bettoni. "I think the best version of Hazard has been seen a little today and that every game we'll see it a bit more." Benzema was the chief beneficiary as Madrid forgot their recent woes in attack. There were strong performances too from Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in midfield, the latter providing a handful of supreme passes, one of which led to Benzema's second and Madrid's fourth. Madrid's first half was probably their best of the season, prompted by an early goal from Casemiro to boost confidence, the Brazilian heading Kroos' corner inside the post. Hazard scuffed a chance wide but was involved in the second as he tried to flick Lucas Vazquez's pass into Benzema but feathering it was enough, with Benzema given space to fire into the top left-hand corner. Hazard made it three four minutes later. Kroos looked up and as Alaves pushed out, Hazard surged in behind, the ball looping over for him to control and finish past Fernando Pachecho. Alaves pushed hard after half-time and were given hope when Joselu headed in from Lucas Perez's free-kick. Yet the comeback was short-lived as Benzema raced onto another curling Modric pass out to the left, nipped inside and stroked into the far corner. Earlier, Youssef En-Nesyri scored his second hat-trick in four games as Sevilla dispatched Cadiz 3-0 to move up to third. The Moroccan striker's treble takes him level with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the top of the league's scoring charts with 11 goals and makes it seven for him in the last four matches. Cadiz, meanwhile, slip to ninth, below Real Betis, who came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad by scoring twice in the last five minutes. Real Sociedad drop to sixth, three points adrift of Barca in fourth. Betis climb to eighth.

Hazard leads Real Madrid to Alaves rout to relieve pressure on Zidane

Faltering La Liga champions&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;slid to a shock 2-1 home defeat by Alaves on Saturday as goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made a catastrophic error and record signing Eden Hazard suffered yet another injury.

Lucas Perez gave Alaves the lead in the fifth minute from the penalty spot after a handball from Nacho, the fifth penalty that&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;have conceded in the league in three matches.

Hazard wasted a chance to equalise when he fired straight at Alaves keeper Fernando Pacheco and then had a penalty appeal waved away before hobbling off with a muscle injury in the 28th minute.

Former&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;youth player Joselu made the most of a gift from Courtois to double Alaves's lead early in the second half, unexpectedly receiving a stray pass from the Belgian outside the area and slotting into the empty net.

Casemiro pulled back a goal for&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;in the 86th minute from close range while Isco almost found an equaliser in the sixth minute of added time but his shot bounced off the crossbar and&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;had to swallow a third defeat in 10 league games.

Zinedine Zidane's side are fourth in the standings on 17 points after 10 games, six below leaders&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Sociedad and second-placed Atletico&nbsp;Madrid. Alaves climbed up to ninth on 13.

"Alaves made a much better start than us and if you don't score you pay for it as this is the toughest league in the world and every opponent has quality,"&nbsp;Real&nbsp;midfielder Casemiro said.

"This is a very different season from most, all the big teams are dropping points but we have to keep working and try to do better. At least we kept trying until the end today.

"Our pre-season campaign was not good and we have almost no time to work because there are so many games. But we need to keep on fighting as there's still a long way to go."

Madrid&nbsp;were lifted by a commanding 2-0 victory away to Inter Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday but were still missing six players, including captain Sergio Ramos and striker Karim Benzema, their two top scorers last season.

Zidane decided to rotate first-choice left back Ferland Mendy and give another chance to veteran Marcelo, who struggled in the 4-1 defeat by Valencia three weeks ago.

But the move backfired yet again as&nbsp;Real&nbsp;suffered their 10th league defeat since Zidane returned to the club in March 2019.

Faltering La Liga champions Real Madrid slid to a shock 2-1 home defeat by Alaves on Saturday as goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made a catastrophic error and record signing Eden Hazard suffered yet another injury.

Faltering La Liga champions Real Madrid slid to a shock 2-1 home defeat by Alaves on Saturday as goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made a catastrophic error and record signing Eden Hazard suffered yet another injury. Lucas Perez gave Alaves the lead in the fifth minute from the penalty spot after a handball from Nacho, the fifth penalty that Madrid have conceded in the league in three matches. Hazard wasted a chance to equalise when he fired straight at Alaves keeper Fernando Pacheco and then had a penalty appeal waved away before hobbling off with a muscle injury in the 28th minute. Former Madrid youth player Joselu made the most of a gift from Courtois to double Alaves's lead early in the second half, unexpectedly receiving a stray pass from the Belgian outside the area and slotting into the empty net. Casemiro pulled back a goal for Madrid in the 86th minute from close range while Isco almost found an equaliser in the sixth minute of added time but his shot bounced off the crossbar and Madrid had to swallow a third defeat in 10 league games. Zinedine Zidane's side are fourth in the standings on 17 points after 10 games, six below leaders Real Sociedad and second-placed Atletico Madrid. Alaves climbed up to ninth on 13. "Alaves made a much better start than us and if you don't score you pay for it as this is the toughest league in the world and every opponent has quality," Real midfielder Casemiro said. "This is a very different season from most, all the big teams are dropping points but we have to keep working and try to do better. At least we kept trying until the end today. "Our pre-season campaign was not good and we have almost no time to work because there are so many games. But we need to keep on fighting as there's still a long way to go." Madrid were lifted by a commanding 2-0 victory away to Inter Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday but were still missing six players, including captain Sergio Ramos and striker Karim Benzema, their two top scorers last season. Zidane decided to rotate first-choice left back Ferland Mendy and give another chance to veteran Marcelo, who struggled in the 4-1 defeat by Valencia three weeks ago. But the move backfired yet again as Real suffered their 10th league defeat since Zidane returned to the club in March 2019.

Real Madrid lose at home to Alaves as Eden Hazard gets injured again

Real Madrid stars Eden Hazard and Casemiro have tested positive for novel coronavirus, as per club's statement on Saturday. This news comes ahead of their crucial La Liga clash against Valencia on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelonas-presidential-candidate-asks-lionel-messi-to-take-pay-cut-due-to-club-debts-341423" hreflang="en">Barcelona's presidential candidate asks Lionel Messi to take pay cut due to club debts</a>

Hazard has been a constant absentee in Madrid squad. First, injuries and now, the virus. The Belgian star has in just three games in 2020-21. Casemiro, on the other hand, has not missed a single game for Madrid this season. The Brazilian mid-fielder has featured in every match in all competitions this term, trained with their team-mates on Friday in preparation for the trip to the Mestalla.

"Real Madrid CF informs that our players, Casemiro and Eden Hazard, have tested positive in the COVID-19 tests undertaken yesterday, Friday, in the morning," the LaLiga champions said in a statement.&nbsp;

"All of the other first-team players and coaching staff, as well as the club employees who work directly with the squad tested negative in yesterday's tests. Meanwhile, all of them, apart from Casemiro and Hazard, once again tested negative in the antigen tests taken this morning," it added.

Real Madrid stars Eden Hazard and Casemiro have tested positive for novel coronavirus, as per club's statement on Saturday. This news comes ahead of their crucial La Liga clash against Valencia on Sunday.

Real Madrid stars Eden Hazard and Casemiro have tested positive for novel coronavirus, as per club's statement on Saturday. This news comes ahead of their crucial La Liga clash against Valencia on Sunday. Also read: Barcelona's presidential candidate asks Lionel Messi to take pay cut due to club debts Hazard has been a constant absentee in Madrid squad. First, injuries and now, the virus. The Belgian star has in just three games in 2020-21. Casemiro, on the other hand, has not missed a single game for Madrid this season. The Brazilian mid-fielder has featured in every match in all competitions this term, trained with their team-mates on Friday in preparation for the trip to the Mestalla. "Real Madrid CF informs that our players, Casemiro and Eden Hazard, have tested positive in the COVID-19 tests undertaken yesterday, Friday, in the morning," the LaLiga champions said in a statement. "All of the other first-team players and coaching staff, as well as the club employees who work directly with the squad tested negative in yesterday's tests. Meanwhile, all of them, apart from Casemiro and Hazard, once again tested negative in the antigen tests taken this morning," it added.

Real Madrid's Eden Hazard and Casemiro test positive for coronavirus

Real Madrid forward Eden Hazard is the kind of special talent football needs but he may struggle to recapture his best form as injury continues to rob him of time on the pitch, Danish great Michael Laudrup has said.

Hazard joined Real from Chelsea last year for a fee of 100 million euros ($118 million) but his impact in Spain has been minimal due to two ankle injuries.

The Belgian made only 14 league starts last season, scoring one goal, and the 29-year-old is yet to play in the current campaign due to a muscle injury.

“Every time you think he’s back he plays a few games and then he’s out again ... it’s so sad to see a great player like him and the weeks and months are just disappearing for him,” Laudrup, who played for Real from 1994-1996, told the BBC.

“I don’t understand what’s wrong, he had some injuries at Chelsea but never this much ... I hope he’ll come back but the problem is as you get older it’s tougher to come back at the level you were before.

“I’ve watched him so many times with Chelsea and Belgium and really enjoy him because I think we lack these kinds of players in football nowadays, players who take the ball and players who go one-on-one or one-on-two.

“We need them, otherwise we just play the ball around and who is going to do the special things?”

Real visit Barcelona in the season’s first Clasico on Saturday.

Real Madrid forward Eden Hazard is the kind of special talent football needs but he may struggle to recapture his best form as injury continues to rob him of time on the pitch, Danish great Michael Laudrup has said.

Real Madrid forward Eden Hazard is the kind of special talent football needs but he may struggle to recapture his best form as injury continues to rob him of time on the pitch, Danish great Michael Laudrup has said. Hazard joined Real from Chelsea last year for a fee of 100 million euros ($118 million) but his impact in Spain has been minimal due to two ankle injuries. The Belgian made only 14 league starts last season, scoring one goal, and the 29-year-old is yet to play in the current campaign due to a muscle injury. “Every time you think he’s back he plays a few games and then he’s out again ... it’s so sad to see a great player like him and the weeks and months are just disappearing for him,” Laudrup, who played for Real from 1994-1996, told the BBC. “I don’t understand what’s wrong, he had some injuries at Chelsea but never this much ... I hope he’ll come back but the problem is as you get older it’s tougher to come back at the level you were before. “I’ve watched him so many times with Chelsea and Belgium and really enjoy him because I think we lack these kinds of players in football nowadays, players who take the ball and players who go one-on-one or one-on-two. “We need them, otherwise we just play the ball around and who is going to do the special things?” Real visit Barcelona in the season’s first Clasico on Saturday.

Hazard a special talent but time slipping away: Laudrup

Barcelona must weigh up the decision whether to rest Lionel Messi for Saturday's trip to Getafe ahead of a congested run of fixtures, while Real Madrid are still waiting on the return of Eden Hazard from injury.

Messi played the full 90 minutes in Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Bolivia during the international break, the second of which was played at altitude in La Paz.

The Barca captain has not missed a single minute for his club since football resumed in June following the coronavirus shutdown.

However, with seven games in the space of 21 days awaiting Barca, coach Ronald Koeman could elect to give Messi a breather before the start of the team's Champions League campaign. &nbsp;

Barca host Hungarian side Ferencvaros on Tuesday and then face sworn enemies Real Madrid four days later behind closed doors at the Camp Nou.

The Catalan club head to Italy for a Champions League clash with Juventus on October 28 before games against Alaves and Real Betis either side of the visit of Dynamo Kiev.

Leaders Madrid are unbeaten in La Liga since March, winning 13 of their past 15 games, and welcome Cadiz to the capital this weekend.

Zinedine Zidane could also opt to rotate some players but Thibaut Courtois, Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior are in line to play after resting while others were away on international duty.

Courtois left the Belgium squad with a back injury and while he is fit to return, compatriot Hazard is not yet ready for action.

The 29-year-old has yet to feature this season having picked up a muscle injury as he worked his way back from an ankle problem.

He is also expected to miss next weekend's Clasico, but Courtois believes Hazard will come good after scoring just once in an injury-plagued first season in Spain.

"I have no doubt we are going to see the best of Hazard," Courtois told Cadena Ser radio.

"He is more desperate than anyone to show it. He's coming along well and&nbsp; hopefully soon he can prove it.

He added: "I am sure that in no time he will explode and will give many joys to the team."

Atletico Madrid visit Celta Vigo in their first game since the sale of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey to Arsenal on transfer deadline day.

Partey made 188 appearances for the Atletico and was part of the sides that reached the 2016 Champions League final and beat Arsenal on the way to winning the Europa League in 2018.

&nbsp;

<h2>One to watch:&nbsp;Oussama Idrissi</h2>

The Dutch-born Morocco international could make his Sevilla debut at Granada after joining the club on a five-year deal from AZ Alkmaar.

Idrissi, 24, scored 13 goals in 25 games in the Eredivisie last season before it was declared over in March due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

Julen Lopetegui's Europa League winners are one of four undefeated teams in La Liga this term, with seven points from their first three matches.

<h2>Key stats</h2>

12 - goals scored by Sergio Ramos since the start of the 2019/20 season, more than any other defender in Europe's top five leagues.

250 - goals scored by Karim Benzema for Real Madrid. The Frenchman is only the fifth player to reach the mark in club history

&nbsp;

<h2>Fixtures</h2>

Saturday (all times GMT)

Granada v Sevilla (1100), Celta Vigo v Atletico Madrid (1400), Real Madrid v Cadiz (1630), Getafe v Barcelona (1900)

Sunday

Eibar v Osasuna (1000), Athletic Bilbao v Levante (1200), Villarreal v Valencia (1400), Alaves v Elche (1630), Huesca v Real Valladolid (1630), Real Betis v Real Sociedad (1900)

Barcelona must weigh up the decision whether to rest Lionel Messi for Saturday's trip to Getafe ahead of a congested run of fixtures, while Real Madrid are still waiting on the return of Eden Hazard from injury.

Barcelona must weigh up the decision whether to rest Lionel Messi for Saturday's trip to Getafe ahead of a congested run of fixtures, while Real Madrid are still waiting on the return of Eden Hazard from injury. Messi played the full 90 minutes in Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Bolivia during the international break, the second of which was played at altitude in La Paz. The Barca captain has not missed a single minute for his club since football resumed in June following the coronavirus shutdown. However, with seven games in the space of 21 days awaiting Barca, coach Ronald Koeman could elect to give Messi a breather before the start of the team's Champions League campaign. Barca host Hungarian side Ferencvaros on Tuesday and then face sworn enemies Real Madrid four days later behind closed doors at the Camp Nou. The Catalan club head to Italy for a Champions League clash with Juventus on October 28 before games against Alaves and Real Betis either side of the visit of Dynamo Kiev. Leaders Madrid are unbeaten in La Liga since March, winning 13 of their past 15 games, and welcome Cadiz to the capital this weekend. Zinedine Zidane could also opt to rotate some players but Thibaut Courtois, Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior are in line to play after resting while others were away on international duty. Courtois left the Belgium squad with a back injury and while he is fit to return, compatriot Hazard is not yet ready for action. The 29-year-old has yet to feature this season having picked up a muscle injury as he worked his way back from an ankle problem. He is also expected to miss next weekend's Clasico, but Courtois believes Hazard will come good after scoring just once in an injury-plagued first season in Spain. "I have no doubt we are going to see the best of Hazard," Courtois told Cadena Ser radio. "He is more desperate than anyone to show it. He's coming along well and hopefully soon he can prove it. He added: "I am sure that in no time he will explode and will give many joys to the team." Atletico Madrid visit Celta Vigo in their first game since the sale of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey to Arsenal on transfer deadline day. Partey made 188 appearances for the Atletico and was part of the sides that reached the 2016 Champions League final and beat Arsenal on the way to winning the Europa League in 2018. One to watch: Oussama Idrissi The Dutch-born Morocco international could make his Sevilla debut at Granada after joining the club on a five-year deal from AZ Alkmaar. Idrissi, 24, scored 13 goals in 25 games in the Eredivisie last season before it was declared over in March due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Julen Lopetegui's Europa League winners are one of four undefeated teams in La Liga this term, with seven points from their first three matches. Key stats 12 - goals scored by Sergio Ramos since the start of the 2019/20 season, more than any other defender in Europe's top five leagues. 250 - goals scored by Karim Benzema for Real Madrid. The Frenchman is only the fifth player to reach the mark in club history Fixtures Saturday (all times GMT) Granada v Sevilla (1100), Celta Vigo v Atletico Madrid (1400), Real Madrid v Cadiz (1630), Getafe v Barcelona (1900) Sunday Eibar v Osasuna (1000), Athletic Bilbao v Levante (1200), Villarreal v Valencia (1400), Alaves v Elche (1630), Huesca v Real Valladolid (1630), Real Betis v Real Sociedad (1900)

Barca ponder Messi rest as Madrid continue to wait on Hazard

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Tuesday Belgium's Eden Hazard is set to return to play after missing the opening two games of the La Liga season with an ankle problem.

Hazard last played for the Spanish champions in August's Champions League loss at Manchester City in his first campaign at the Santiago Bernabeu where he scored just once after suffering various injuries.

"I see him very close, he is as ready as possible, he's training well with the team," Zidane said ahead of Wednesday's home league game against Real Valladolid.

"He trains regularly, and he's doing well, and we'll see how we play him," the Frenchman added.

The former Chelsea attacker has been criticised by local media who claim he was overweight after he joined in July 2019 for a reported fee of 100 million euros ($117 million).

He featured 22 times for Zidane's men after sustaining foot and hamstring issues.

"He has a big problem in that sense where it's bothered him for a long while, but now he seems to be doing better," Zidane said.

"The season is very long and he's a professional. What he wants is to be with his team-mates and help them," he added.

Zidane has made no purchases during the summer with the Spanish transfer window closing on October 5.

Attackers Gareth Bale and James Rodriguez have left Madrid as has left-back Sergio Reguilon.

"I am very happy with what I have," the 48-year-old said. "We already have a lot of players. Why bring more people here? They are all very good, I'm happy, really happy.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Tuesday Belgium's Eden Hazard is set to return to play after missing the opening two games of the La Liga season with an ankle problem.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Tuesday Belgium's Eden Hazard is set to return to play after missing the opening two games of the La Liga season with an ankle problem. Hazard last played for the Spanish champions in August's Champions League loss at Manchester City in his first campaign at the Santiago Bernabeu where he scored just once after suffering various injuries. "I see him very close, he is as ready as possible, he's training well with the team," Zidane said ahead of Wednesday's home league game against Real Valladolid. "He trains regularly, and he's doing well, and we'll see how we play him," the Frenchman added. The former Chelsea attacker has been criticised by local media who claim he was overweight after he joined in July 2019 for a reported fee of 100 million euros ($117 million). He featured 22 times for Zidane's men after sustaining foot and hamstring issues. "He has a big problem in that sense where it's bothered him for a long while, but now he seems to be doing better," Zidane said. "The season is very long and he's a professional. What he wants is to be with his team-mates and help them," he added. Zidane has made no purchases during the summer with the Spanish transfer window closing on October 5. Attackers Gareth Bale and James Rodriguez have left Madrid as has left-back Sergio Reguilon. "I am very happy with what I have," the 48-year-old said. "We already have a lot of players. Why bring more people here? They are all very good, I'm happy, really happy.

Eden Hazard 'ready' for Madrid return, says Zinedine Zidane

Real Madrid would love nothing more than for Eden Hazard to burst into life against Manchester City on Friday but their march to the La Liga title has shown they know very well how to win without him.&nbsp;

Faced with the challenge of overturning a 2-1 first-leg defeat in February, a lesser Madrid might have been looking to Hazard for inspiration as they try to shock Pep Guardiola's side and reach the Champions League quarter-finals.&nbsp;

"We know we have to go there and win," said Zinedine Zidane after the first leg.

Back in England, where he forged his reputation as one of the world's most lethal attackers, and up against arguably the favourites to win the tournament, the stage is set again for Hazard to rescue what has been a nightmare opening year in Spain.&nbsp;

Yet few are billing this as a duel between Hazard and Kevin de Bruyne, Belgium's two brightest talents, or tieing Madrid's progress to the mast of a decisive Hazard intervention, the like of which Madrid's fans are yet to witness this season.&nbsp;

"We know the team wins with Eden," said Zidane in February. "That's why we signed him, he's a great player."

But the team have won without him too. The reality is Madrid have learned not to miss the player they signed for 100 million euros last year and who said at his unveiling at the Santiago Bernabeu he wanted to become the club's next Galactico.&nbsp;

There is still time, but Hazard's Madrid career so far has been a series of setbacks and comebacks, with only glimpses in between of those mazey runs, surges of acceleration or goals. In 21 appearances, Hazard has scored only once this season.&nbsp;

He may not be fully fit on Friday given the 11 games since La Liga resumed saw Hazard start some games, come off early in others and miss a handful altogether.&nbsp;

He was absent from the pictures published by the club on Wednesday of the morning's training session at Valdebebas.

Zidane has been vague on the 29-year-old's fitness issues but what is clear is the operation in March does not appear to have completely fixed his troublesome right ankle.&nbsp;

When he has been fit enough to play, Hazard has struck an unmissable chemistry with Karim Benzema and their promising partnership could wreak havoc in City's creaky backline or, further ahead, take Madrid to another level next term.&nbsp;

Zidane has admitted his team's La Liga success was built almost entirely on their defence but there is room for improvement up front, where Benzema's brilliant form has often made up for a lack of fluency and chances.&nbsp;

“Even as someone who prefers exciting, attacking football, the defence is the most important thing right now,” Zidane said last month.

In that sense, Madrid's strengths are far more threatened in Manchester by the absence of the suspended Sergio Ramos than they would be boosted by the return of Hazard, who could be kept on the bench if the conservative Zidane prefers a late push to all-out attack from the start.&nbsp;

There would be no better moment for peak Hazard to emerge but this is not the Madrid he joined last year, desperate and dead on their feet, at the end of a chastening season without silverware and without encouragement.&nbsp;

Zidane has led the transformation and he maintains complete faith, at least in public, that Hazard will come good at Madrid eventually. For now at least, it is more hope than expectation.&nbsp;

Real Madrid would love nothing more than for Eden Hazard to burst into life against Manchester City on Friday but their march to the La Liga title has shown they know very well how to win without him.

Real Madrid would love nothing more than for Eden Hazard to burst into life against Manchester City on Friday but their march to the La Liga title has shown they know very well how to win without him. Faced with the challenge of overturning a 2-1 first-leg defeat in February, a lesser Madrid might have been looking to Hazard for inspiration as they try to shock Pep Guardiola's side and reach the Champions League quarter-finals. "We know we have to go there and win," said Zinedine Zidane after the first leg. Back in England, where he forged his reputation as one of the world's most lethal attackers, and up against arguably the favourites to win the tournament, the stage is set again for Hazard to rescue what has been a nightmare opening year in Spain. Yet few are billing this as a duel between Hazard and Kevin de Bruyne, Belgium's two brightest talents, or tieing Madrid's progress to the mast of a decisive Hazard intervention, the like of which Madrid's fans are yet to witness this season. "We know the team wins with Eden," said Zidane in February. "That's why we signed him, he's a great player." But the team have won without him too. The reality is Madrid have learned not to miss the player they signed for 100 million euros last year and who said at his unveiling at the Santiago Bernabeu he wanted to become the club's next Galactico. There is still time, but Hazard's Madrid career so far has been a series of setbacks and comebacks, with only glimpses in between of those mazey runs, surges of acceleration or goals. In 21 appearances, Hazard has scored only once this season. He may not be fully fit on Friday given the 11 games since La Liga resumed saw Hazard start some games, come off early in others and miss a handful altogether. He was absent from the pictures published by the club on Wednesday of the morning's training session at Valdebebas. Zidane has been vague on the 29-year-old's fitness issues but what is clear is the operation in March does not appear to have completely fixed his troublesome right ankle. When he has been fit enough to play, Hazard has struck an unmissable chemistry with Karim Benzema and their promising partnership could wreak havoc in City's creaky backline or, further ahead, take Madrid to another level next term. Zidane has admitted his team's La Liga success was built almost entirely on their defence but there is room for improvement up front, where Benzema's brilliant form has often made up for a lack of fluency and chances. “Even as someone who prefers exciting, attacking football, the defence is the most important thing right now,” Zidane said last month. In that sense, Madrid's strengths are far more threatened in Manchester by the absence of the suspended Sergio Ramos than they would be boosted by the return of Hazard, who could be kept on the bench if the conservative Zidane prefers a late push to all-out attack from the start. There would be no better moment for peak Hazard to emerge but this is not the Madrid he joined last year, desperate and dead on their feet, at the end of a chastening season without silverware and without encouragement. Zidane has led the transformation and he maintains complete faith, at least in public, that Hazard will come good at Madrid eventually. For now at least, it is more hope than expectation.

Another chance for Hazard but Madrid can beat City without him

Sergio Ramos led the team from the front as his stunning freekick has helped Real Madrid to go back on top of La Liga table as they beat Real Mallorca 2-0 on Wednesday.&nbsp;

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Ramos justified his move when he denied Gareth Bale from taking the free-kick, he smashed the curling ball into the top corner. Madrid's 19-year-old prodigy, Vinicius Junior opened the score for the team in the first half.&nbsp;

Real Madrid and Barcelona are levelled on points in the table but due to superior goal differences, the Bernabeu side is on top.&nbsp;

"There are seven finals left," said Ramos. "There will be only one league in the year of coronavirus and we want to win it for the fans."

Gareth Bale got his first start since February 16 as coach Zinedine Zidane continued his rotation policy. Despite a start, the Welshman had an underwhelming display on the pitch and is unlikely to be a constant in the playing XI.&nbsp;

Vinicius Junior displayed a good form on the pitch as the Brazilian also hit the crossbar in the first half.

Eden Hazard continues to struggle with his ankle injury and was taken off shortly after an hour.&nbsp;

There was also the time in the end for history to be made as Mallorca's Luka Romero became the youngest player ever to play in La Liga, aged 15 years and 219 days.

Sergio Ramos led the team from the front as his stunning freekick has helped Real Madrid to go back on top of La Liga table as they beat Real Mallorca 2-0 on Wednesday.

Sergio Ramos led the team from the front as his stunning freekick has helped Real Madrid to go back on top of La Liga table as they beat Real Mallorca 2-0 on Wednesday. Also read: Sergio Aguero's knee surgery goes well, expected to return in August Ramos justified his move when he denied Gareth Bale from taking the free-kick, he smashed the curling ball into the top corner. Madrid's 19-year-old prodigy, Vinicius Junior opened the score for the team in the first half. Real Madrid and Barcelona are levelled on points in the table but due to superior goal differences, the Bernabeu side is on top. "There are seven finals left," said Ramos. "There will be only one league in the year of coronavirus and we want to win it for the fans." Gareth Bale got his first start since February 16 as coach Zinedine Zidane continued his rotation policy. Despite a start, the Welshman had an underwhelming display on the pitch and is unlikely to be a constant in the playing XI. Vinicius Junior displayed a good form on the pitch as the Brazilian also hit the crossbar in the first half. Eden Hazard continues to struggle with his ankle injury and was taken off shortly after an hour. There was also the time in the end for history to be made as Mallorca's Luka Romero became the youngest player ever to play in La Liga, aged 15 years and 219 days.

Sergio Ramos' free kick helps Real Madrid top the La Liga table

Real Madrid has resumed their La Liga title race with a 3-1 win over Eibar. Real Madrid's victory has reduced the gap behind league leaders Barcelona back to two points after the Catalans thrashed Real Mallorca 4-0 on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-star-marcelo-takes-the-knee-to-show-solidarity-to-black-lives-matter-campaign-305901" hreflang="en">Real Madrid star Marcelo takes the knee to show solidarity to Black Lives Matter campaign</a>

Toni Kroos opened for the Spanish Giants on the fourth minute and within 37 minutes they were up by three goals after Sergio Ramos and Marcelo scored.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard was making his first start since February after he injured his right ankle in November and February. He underwent surgery in March.&nbsp;

Hazard and Ramos were taken off before the start of the second half and were seen with ice packs strapped to them while sitting in the stands.

"We knew Eden would lack a bit of rhythm playing the whole game," coach Zinedine Zidane said.&nbsp;

"He played well for an hour, he took a knock which was a scare but at half-time, he said he was fine. He is happy with what he has done and we are happy with him."

Eibar tried to make a comeback after Pedro Bigas scored in the second half but it could not happen.&nbsp;

One of the biggest moments of the games was when Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar.&nbsp;

Real Madrid has resumed their La Liga title race with a 3-1 win over Eibar. Real Madrid's victory has reduced the gap behind league leaders Barcelona back to two points after the Catalans thrashed Real Mallorca 4-0 on Saturday.

Real Madrid has resumed their La Liga title race with a 3-1 win over Eibar. Real Madrid's victory has reduced the gap behind league leaders Barcelona back to two points after the Catalans thrashed Real Mallorca 4-0 on Saturday. Also read: Real Madrid star Marcelo takes the knee to show solidarity to Black Lives Matter campaign Toni Kroos opened for the Spanish Giants on the fourth minute and within 37 minutes they were up by three goals after Sergio Ramos and Marcelo scored. Eden Hazard was making his first start since February after he injured his right ankle in November and February. He underwent surgery in March. Hazard and Ramos were taken off before the start of the second half and were seen with ice packs strapped to them while sitting in the stands. "We knew Eden would lack a bit of rhythm playing the whole game," coach Zinedine Zidane said. "He played well for an hour, he took a knock which was a scare but at half-time, he said he was fine. He is happy with what he has done and we are happy with him." Eibar tried to make a comeback after Pedro Bigas scored in the second half but it could not happen. One of the biggest moments of the games was when Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar.

La Liga: Real Madrid resume its title bid after 3-1 win over Eibar

Real Madrid's star winger Eden Hazard has "successfully" undergone surgery after he broke his right foot.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrids-vinicius-jr-record-breaking-goal-topple-barcelona-in-el-clasico-283609">La Liga: Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr record-breaking goal topple Barcelona in El Clasico</a>

The La Liga leaders (Real Madrid) released a statement on Thursday. The statement read: "Eden Hazard has successfully undergone surgery today in Dallas on a fracture in the fibula of his right foot."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-guardiolas-masterclass-ensures-man-city-comeback-against-real-madrid-282976">Champions League: Guardiola's masterclass ensures Man City comeback against Real Madrid</a>

"The operation was supervised by Real Madrid Medical Services. Hazard will now remain under observation until he gets the all-clear to being his rehabilitation process."

The Belgian international got injured during the match with Levante (Real Madrid lost that fixture) on February 23. This was his second start after rehabilitating for three months after he had a fracture on the same leg.

Hazard has had a sticky spell for Real Madrid so far, he joined the Spanish Giants after a 100 million Euro transfer from Chelsea. He was struck by thigh injury before he could begin the season for Madrid. Eden took time to regain his form post that injury. Hazard has been injury-struck quite often.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard has made only 15 appearances for his club this season and has just one goal to his name.

Real Madrid are currently table-toppers after the 2-0 El Clasico win over Barcelona last Sunday.

Real Madrid's star winger Eden Hazard has "successfully" undergone surgery after he broke his right foot. Also read: La Liga: Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr record-breaking goal topple Barcelona in El Clasico The La Liga leaders (Real Madrid) released a statement on Thursday.

Real Madrid's star winger Eden Hazard has "successfully" undergone surgery after he broke his right foot. Also read: La Liga: Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr record-breaking goal topple Barcelona in El Clasico The La Liga leaders (Real Madrid) released a statement on Thursday. The statement read: "Eden Hazard has successfully undergone surgery today in Dallas on a fracture in the fibula of his right foot." Also read: Champions League: Guardiola's masterclass ensures Man City comeback against Real Madrid "The operation was supervised by Real Madrid Medical Services. Hazard will now remain under observation until he gets the all-clear to being his rehabilitation process." The Belgian international got injured during the match with Levante (Real Madrid lost that fixture) on February 23. This was his second start after rehabilitating for three months after he had a fracture on the same leg. Hazard has had a sticky spell for Real Madrid so far, he joined the Spanish Giants after a 100 million Euro transfer from Chelsea. He was struck by thigh injury before he could begin the season for Madrid. Eden took time to regain his form post that injury. Hazard has been injury-struck quite often. Eden Hazard has made only 15 appearances for his club this season and has just one goal to his name. Real Madrid are currently table-toppers after the 2-0 El Clasico win over Barcelona last Sunday.

'Eden Hazard has successfully undergone surgery': Real Madrid

Chelsea manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-enjoy-derby-demolition-as-it-sets-new-club-record-leicester-still-chasing-266306">Frank&nbsp;Lampard&nbsp;</a>says he hopes to sign a forward in&nbsp;January&nbsp;to make up for the loss of Belgian Eden Hazard, who moved to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gareth-bale-has-never-asked-to-leave-real-madrid-says-agent-266604">Real Madrid</a> in the close season.

Chelsea was cleared to sign players in the next transfer window last week after the Court of Arbitration for Sport halved a ban for breaching rules on the international transfer and registration of players under 18.

"I will look at all areas of the team,"&nbsp;Lampard&nbsp;told reporters after his team reached the last 16 of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-in-eye-of-storm-against-salzburg-267519">Champions League</a> by beating Lille 2-1 at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

"But I think it was quite clear in the summer that you lose <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-go-top-with-gutsy-win-against-alaves-265514">Eden Hazard</a>, who was a huge part of scoring or creating our goals last season and the season before that, the high level of player he is.

"We've found ways as a team where we can still be competitive but going forward if we're looking at if we can get even better in forwarding areas to help competition then I think we'll always look at that."

Lampard&nbsp;did not think that signing another striker might affect the confidence of younger players like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-abraham-return-helps-chelsea-beat-villa-266321">Tammy Abraham</a>, who has scored 13 goals for the club this season.

"I don't think it is a concern at all because they are here to stay, I truly believe in that," he added. "I believe in the quality of all the young players here."

Chelsea's&nbsp;next match is at home against Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard says he hopes to sign a forward in January to make up for the loss of Belgian Eden Hazard, who moved to Real Madrid in the close season.

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard says he hopes to sign a forward in January to make up for the loss of Belgian Eden Hazard, who moved to Real Madrid in the close season. Chelsea was cleared to sign players in the next transfer window last week after the Court of Arbitration for Sport halved a ban for breaching rules on the international transfer and registration of players under 18. "I will look at all areas of the team," Lampard told reporters after his team reached the last 16 of the Champions League by beating Lille 2-1 at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday. "But I think it was quite clear in the summer that you lose Eden Hazard, who was a huge part of scoring or creating our goals last season and the season before that, the high level of player he is. "We've found ways as a team where we can still be competitive but going forward if we're looking at if we can get even better in forwarding areas to help competition then I think we'll always look at that." Lampard did not think that signing another striker might affect the confidence of younger players like Tammy Abraham, who has scored 13 goals for the club this season. "I don't think it is a concern at all because they are here to stay, I truly believe in that," he added. "I believe in the quality of all the young players here." Chelsea's next match is at home against Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.

Lampard keen to strengthen Chelsea's attack in January

Belgium secured top spot in Euro 2020 qualifying Group I and stretched their perfect record to nine wins after two goals from Eden Hazard and one by his brother Thorgan inspired them to a sparkling 4-1 win in Russia on Saturday.

With one round of games remaining, Belgium have a maximum 27 points and second-placed Russia 21, both sides having booked their places at next year's 24-nation tournament.

Although there was only pride to play for, the game got off to a pacy start and Thorgan Hazard fired the visitors ahead with a superb 19th-minute goal when he side-stepped his marker and blasted an unstoppable shot into the top corner.

Eden Hazard made it 2-0 in the 33rd with another fine effort, volleying a low drive past Russia's Brazilian-born goalkeeper Guilherme after striker Romelu Lukaku headed a lofted pass into his captain's stride.

The livewire forward doubled his tally shortly before halftime from a brilliant move, with midfielder Kevin De Bruyne squaring the ball unselfishly for Hazard to stroke into an empty net from 12 metres.

Only poor finishing by Lukaku and two good saves by Guilherme denied the Belgians a bigger lead in the opening hour as Russia failed to create anything in front of a partisan home crowd.

Ruthless Belgium struck again in the 72nd minute as Lukaku made amends for his early miss, rifling a scorcher inside the near post from 16 metres with Guilherme clutching nothing but thin air.

Georgi Dzhikiya finally gave the subdued home fans something to cheer about when he swept home a close-range rebound in the 79th, but it was scant consolation for a crushing defeat by last year's World Cup semi-finalists.

Belgium secured top spot in Euro 2020 qualifying Group I and stretched their perfect record to nine wins after two goals from Eden Hazard and one by his brother Thorgan inspired them to a sparkling 4-1 win in Russia on Saturday.

Belgium secured top spot in Euro 2020 qualifying Group I and stretched their perfect record to nine wins after two goals from Eden Hazard and one by his brother Thorgan inspired them to a sparkling 4-1 win in Russia on Saturday. With one round of games remaining, Belgium have a maximum 27 points and second-placed Russia 21, both sides having booked their places at next year's 24-nation tournament. Although there was only pride to play for, the game got off to a pacy start and Thorgan Hazard fired the visitors ahead with a superb 19th-minute goal when he side-stepped his marker and blasted an unstoppable shot into the top corner. Eden Hazard made it 2-0 in the 33rd with another fine effort, volleying a low drive past Russia's Brazilian-born goalkeeper Guilherme after striker Romelu Lukaku headed a lofted pass into his captain's stride. The livewire forward doubled his tally shortly before halftime from a brilliant move, with midfielder Kevin De Bruyne squaring the ball unselfishly for Hazard to stroke into an empty net from 12 metres. Only poor finishing by Lukaku and two good saves by Guilherme denied the Belgians a bigger lead in the opening hour as Russia failed to create anything in front of a partisan home crowd. Ruthless Belgium struck again in the 72nd minute as Lukaku made amends for his early miss, rifling a scorcher inside the near post from 16 metres with Guilherme clutching nothing but thin air. Georgi Dzhikiya finally gave the subdued home fans something to cheer about when he swept home a close-range rebound in the 79th, but it was scant consolation for a crushing defeat by last year's World Cup semi-finalists.

Hazard brothers shine as Belgium thrash Russia in Euro qualifiers

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has said the club will not prevent injured forward Eden Hazard from travelling to the Belgium team's camp next week but urged him not to play in their upcoming Euro 2020 qualifiers.

Hazard, who Madrid signed from Chelsea for a joint-club record fee of €100 million ($111.44 million) in June, has yet to play a competitive game for his new side after injuring his thigh the day before the La Liga season started.

He has been named in the Belgium squad for the qualifiers away to San Marino and Scotland but was absent from Madrid's final training session before Sunday's trip to Villarreal, with Zidane reiterating that the forward is not yet fit.

"Legally he can travel with Belgium but at the moment he cannot play," Zidane told a news conference on Saturday.

"He knows that, we do too and I hope he doesn't play, for the good of everyone, including Belgium."

Hazard is one of six Madrid forwards who are currently out, with Spain international Isco and Colombian James Rodriguez the latest players to fall injured this week after the team's disappointing 1-1 draw at home to Real Valladolid last week.

Zidane, however, dismissed suggestions that Madrid's injury woes were down to problems with player conditioning.

"Obviously I'm not happy to see my players injured but unfortunately these things happen, they happen in every team, everywhere you look you see there are lots of players with injuries," he said.

"Our physios and doctors and everyone who works with the players are doing everything possible and I hope that everyone can return quickly."

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has said the club will not prevent injured forward Eden Hazard from travelling to the Belgium team's camp next week but urged him not to play in their upcoming Euro 2020 qualifiers.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has said the club will not prevent injured forward Eden Hazard from travelling to the Belgium team's camp next week but urged him not to play in their upcoming Euro 2020 qualifiers. Hazard, who Madrid signed from Chelsea for a joint-club record fee of €100 million ($111.44 million) in June, has yet to play a competitive game for his new side after injuring his thigh the day before the La Liga season started. He has been named in the Belgium squad for the qualifiers away to San Marino and Scotland but was absent from Madrid's final training session before Sunday's trip to Villarreal, with Zidane reiterating that the forward is not yet fit. "Legally he can travel with Belgium but at the moment he cannot play," Zidane told a news conference on Saturday. "He knows that, we do too and I hope he doesn't play, for the good of everyone, including Belgium." Hazard is one of six Madrid forwards who are currently out, with Spain international Isco and Colombian James Rodriguez the latest players to fall injured this week after the team's disappointing 1-1 draw at home to Real Valladolid last week. Zidane, however, dismissed suggestions that Madrid's injury woes were down to problems with player conditioning. "Obviously I'm not happy to see my players injured but unfortunately these things happen, they happen in every team, everywhere you look you see there are lots of players with injuries," he said. "Our physios and doctors and everyone who works with the players are doing everything possible and I hope that everyone can return quickly."

Zidane advises Eden Hazard against playing for Belgium

Real Madrid's preparations for the new season hit an untimely snag as marquee signing Eden Hazard was ruled out of Saturday's La Liga season opener against Celta Vigo after sustaining a muscle injury in Friday's training session.

A statement from Madrid said Hazard underwent tests after training which revealed he had injured the anterior tendon in his left thigh but did not state how long the Belgian forward would be out of action for.

Hazard, 28, joined Madrid from Chelsea in June for a joint-club record fee of €100 million ($110.73 million), their most profile signing in a busy close season for the 13-times European champions, who spent more than 300 million euros on new recruits.

Real are also without fellow winger Marco Asensio for the start of the new campaign due to a serious knee injury, while Dani Carvajal is suspended.

Real Madrid's preparations for the new season hit an untimely snag as marquee signing Eden Hazard was ruled out of Saturday's La Liga season opener against Celta Vigo after sustaining a muscle injury in Friday's training session.

Real Madrid's preparations for the new season hit an untimely snag as marquee signing Eden Hazard was ruled out of Saturday's La Liga season opener against Celta Vigo after sustaining a muscle injury in Friday's training session. A statement from Madrid said Hazard underwent tests after training which revealed he had injured the anterior tendon in his left thigh but did not state how long the Belgian forward would be out of action for. Hazard, 28, joined Madrid from Chelsea in June for a joint-club record fee of €100 million ($110.73 million), their most profile signing in a busy close season for the 13-times European champions, who spent more than 300 million euros on new recruits. Real are also without fellow winger Marco Asensio for the start of the new campaign due to a serious knee injury, while Dani Carvajal is suspended.

Eden Hazard out of Madrid season opener with thigh injury

Zinedine Zidane has admitted Gareth Bale is back in his plans ahead of Real Madrid's opening La Liga game of the season against Celta Vigo on Saturday.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard sustained a thigh injury in training on Friday, meaning Bale could even start against Celta following a turbulent summer for the Welshman.&nbsp;

Zidane was keen for Bale to be sold but Madrid cancelled a deal with Chinese club Jiangsu Suning while the winger's salary of around €18 million a year has proven too high for other interested clubs.&nbsp;

Bale is also eager to stay at Madrid, where he has a contract until 2022, and is not interested in moving to Paris Saint-Germain, despite suggestions he could be included in a bid for Neymar.&nbsp;

"It looked like he was leaving and now he's here with us, that's it," Zidane said.&nbsp;

"The dynamic changes and things change and now I'm going to count on him like everyone else. I said it a short time ago, I'm going to count on all the players that are here."&nbsp;

Zidane left Bale out of his squad for three consecutive pre-season friendlies but the 30-year-old returned for the last game against Roma, when he came off the bench in the second half.

The transfer window in Spain closes on September 2.&nbsp;

"He has a contract, he's an important player and I hope all the players want to make it difficult for me to pick the team," Zidane added.&nbsp;

Zidane had promised wholesale changes this summer and his first press conference of the season was dominated by questions about the transfer window.&nbsp;

He refused to be drawn on a move for Neymar, insisting: "Neymar is not a Real Madrid player. We are interested in the players that are here."&nbsp;

And on the failed attempt to buy Paul Pogba from Manchester United, he said: "Paul is a player for Manchester United and we have to respect that. Here we are thinking about the game tomorrow."&nbsp;

But Madrid's failure to sign Pogba and sell either Bale or James Rodriguez means the club's president Florentino Perez has perhaps not delivered the sort of changes Zidane had hoped for.&nbsp;

"It's not about whether it's positive or negative," Zidane said. "I accept what I have. We've talked with the people that have to do those things and it is the games now that interest us."&nbsp;

Zidane said James is fit and ready to be involved against Celta. "He is in shape and I'm glad to have him," Zidane said.&nbsp;

But Hazard is expected to be out for three to four weeks and joins Ferland Mendy, who is recovering from a calf problem, and Marco Asensio, who has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament, on the sidelines.&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane has admitted Gareth Bale is back in his plans ahead of Real Madrid's opening La Liga game of the season against Celta Vigo on Saturday. Eden Hazard sustained a thigh injury in training on Friday, meaning Bale could even start against Celta following a turbulent summer for the Welshman.

Zinedine Zidane has admitted Gareth Bale is back in his plans ahead of Real Madrid's opening La Liga game of the season against Celta Vigo on Saturday. Eden Hazard sustained a thigh injury in training on Friday, meaning Bale could even start against Celta following a turbulent summer for the Welshman. Zidane was keen for Bale to be sold but Madrid cancelled a deal with Chinese club Jiangsu Suning while the winger's salary of around €18 million a year has proven too high for other interested clubs. Bale is also eager to stay at Madrid, where he has a contract until 2022, and is not interested in moving to Paris Saint-Germain, despite suggestions he could be included in a bid for Neymar. "It looked like he was leaving and now he's here with us, that's it," Zidane said. "The dynamic changes and things change and now I'm going to count on him like everyone else. I said it a short time ago, I'm going to count on all the players that are here." Zidane left Bale out of his squad for three consecutive pre-season friendlies but the 30-year-old returned for the last game against Roma, when he came off the bench in the second half. The transfer window in Spain closes on September 2. "He has a contract, he's an important player and I hope all the players want to make it difficult for me to pick the team," Zidane added. Zidane had promised wholesale changes this summer and his first press conference of the season was dominated by questions about the transfer window. He refused to be drawn on a move for Neymar, insisting: "Neymar is not a Real Madrid player. We are interested in the players that are here." And on the failed attempt to buy Paul Pogba from Manchester United, he said: "Paul is a player for Manchester United and we have to respect that. Here we are thinking about the game tomorrow." But Madrid's failure to sign Pogba and sell either Bale or James Rodriguez means the club's president Florentino Perez has perhaps not delivered the sort of changes Zidane had hoped for. "It's not about whether it's positive or negative," Zidane said. "I accept what I have. We've talked with the people that have to do those things and it is the games now that interest us." Zidane said James is fit and ready to be involved against Celta. "He is in shape and I'm glad to have him," Zidane said. But Hazard is expected to be out for three to four weeks and joins Ferland Mendy, who is recovering from a calf problem, and Marco Asensio, who has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament, on the sidelines.

I'm now counting on Bale, says Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane

Eden Hazard was unveiled at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday as around 50,000 supporters turned out to welcome the player they hope will launch a glorious <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/eden-hazard-could-be-catalyst-for-new-real-madrid-era-says-belgium-coach-roberto-martinez-226154&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkxNG6rejiAhVOnY8KHaqnD0AQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1tvAhvIBmiDziPMMNbW-lv">new era</a> under Zinedine Zidane.

The 28-year-old Hazard was presented with the home shirt, which was without a number, by club president Florentino Perez, moments after the Belgian had delivered a brief statement to his expectant fans.

"Hello everyone," Hazard started in Spanish, to huge cheers, before continuing in French. "It was my dream since I was small to play for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/eden-hazard-joins-real-madrid-on-five-year-contract-for-zidanes-re-build-225379&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkxNG6rejiAhVOnY8KHaqnD0AQFjABegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3nvWTldibpo0WqoPRj8_iW">Real Madrid</a> and now I am here."

"You are one of the best players in the world. We know Real Madrid was where you wanted to be and now you're here," added Perez.

Madrid confirmed the much-anticipated transfer of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-its-a-goodbye-says-eden-hazard-after-winning-europa-league-for-chelsea-222654&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkxNG6rejiAhVOnY8KHaqnD0AQFjAEegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2IyRIa1vcV6PXJj3NaYz97">Hazard </a>from Chelsea on Friday for an initial 100 million euros ($113 million), with another 45 million in potential add-ons.&nbsp;

The full amount would trump the 101 million euros Madrid paid Tottenham for Gareth Bale and the 91 million euros they spent to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United.&nbsp;

Ronaldo attracted almost 80,000 for his presentation in 2009 and while the attendance for Hazard was not as large, this was still an impressive turnout.

Even three hours before, long queues snaked around the stadium while some supporters were seen running towards entrances they heard had suddenly been opened.

Inside, they roared as Hazard's best goals were shown on a big screen and then again when he struck a penalty into an open net.

Hazard juggled with one ball in front of the cameras and then booted dozens of them into the stands, waving and applauding as he walked around the edge of the pitch.

Before he emerged, there had been chants of "We want Mbappe!" and a scattering of whistles for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-hope-eden-hazard-comes-to-madrid-this-year-says-president-florentino-perez-222178&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkxNG6rejiAhVOnY8KHaqnD0AQFjAHegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1RyWM40Tuvoy1_SXHFBvYN">Perez</a>, who has been tasked with rebuilding a Madrid squad that woefully underperformed last season.

Perez has admitted to being interested in Kylian Mbappe but the club's transfers this summer already amount to around 300 million euros after the arrivals of Luka Jovic, Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy.

There will surely have to be sales before the French striker could be prized from Paris Saint-Germain.

Without Mbappe, it will be Hazard, who scored 110 goals in seven seasons at Chelsea, who may be the star of Zidane's renovated team, with the winger's arrival bolstering an already-bloated list of attacking options.

Scrapping for the spots in support of Karim Benzema are currently Vinicius Junior, Bale, Isco, Brahim Diaz, Marco Asensio, Lucas Vazquez and even James Rodriguez, who has returned from a loan spell at Bayern Munich.

Hazard's place is all-but guaranteed and he will be expected to at least help in plugging the gap left by Ronaldo's departure to Juventus.

They are big shoes to fill.

Eden Hazard was unveiled at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday as around 50,000 supporters turned out to welcome the player they hope will launch a glorious new era under Zinedine Zidane.

Eden Hazard was unveiled at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday as around 50,000 supporters turned out to welcome the player they hope will launch a glorious new era under Zinedine Zidane. The 28-year-old Hazard was presented with the home shirt, which was without a number, by club president Florentino Perez, moments after the Belgian had delivered a brief statement to his expectant fans. "Hello everyone," Hazard started in Spanish, to huge cheers, before continuing in French. "It was my dream since I was small to play for Real Madrid and now I am here." "You are one of the best players in the world. We know Real Madrid was where you wanted to be and now you're here," added Perez. Madrid confirmed the much-anticipated transfer of Hazard from Chelsea on Friday for an initial 100 million euros ($113 million), with another 45 million in potential add-ons. The full amount would trump the 101 million euros Madrid paid Tottenham for Gareth Bale and the 91 million euros they spent to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United. Ronaldo attracted almost 80,000 for his presentation in 2009 and while the attendance for Hazard was not as large, this was still an impressive turnout. Even three hours before, long queues snaked around the stadium while some supporters were seen running towards entrances they heard had suddenly been opened. Inside, they roared as Hazard's best goals were shown on a big screen and then again when he struck a penalty into an open net. Hazard juggled with one ball in front of the cameras and then booted dozens of them into the stands, waving and applauding as he walked around the edge of the pitch. Before he emerged, there had been chants of "We want Mbappe!" and a scattering of whistles for Perez, who has been tasked with rebuilding a Madrid squad that woefully underperformed last season. Perez has admitted to being interested in Kylian Mbappe but the club's transfers this summer already amount to around 300 million euros after the arrivals of Luka Jovic, Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy. There will surely have to be sales before the French striker could be prized from Paris Saint-Germain. Without Mbappe, it will be Hazard, who scored 110 goals in seven seasons at Chelsea, who may be the star of Zidane's renovated team, with the winger's arrival bolstering an already-bloated list of attacking options. Scrapping for the spots in support of Karim Benzema are currently Vinicius Junior, Bale, Isco, Brahim Diaz, Marco Asensio, Lucas Vazquez and even James Rodriguez, who has returned from a loan spell at Bayern Munich. Hazard's place is all-but guaranteed and he will be expected to at least help in plugging the gap left by Ronaldo's departure to Juventus. They are big shoes to fill.

It was my dream to play for Real Madrid, says Eden Hazard at Santiago Bernabeu unveiling

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