Japanese striker Takefusa Kubo joined <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/luka-jovic-signing-kicks-off-real-rebuilding-project-says-florentino-perez-226605">Real Madrid</a> on Friday, with the Spanish La Liga club hailing the 18-year-old as "one of the most promising youngsters in world football".

Details of the deal were not disclosed but Spanish newspaper Marca said Real have paid FC Tokyo a two million euro ($2.25 million) transfer fee, while Kubo was expected to have signed a five-year contract.

"Takefusa Kubo will come in to strengthen the Castilla ranks next season," La Liga side Real said in a statement on their website.

"A technically gifted and hugely talented attacking midfielder, he possesses wonderful vision, quick feet and has an eye for goal," it said.

Kubo, who made his Japan debut against El Salvador earlier this month, impressed for table-topping J League side FC Tokyo.

He is currently in Brazil with the rest of Hajime Moriyasu’s Japan squad preparing for the Copa America, which begins later on Friday.

Samurai Blue’s first game is against Chile on Monday.

Kubo’s arrival in Madrid will not be his first taste of Spanish soccer, having joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia youth academy aged nine.

Nicknamed the ‘Japanese Messi’, Kubo was earmarked for a future at the Nou Camp but returned to Japan after Barcelona were found guilty of youth transfer breaches and handed a 14-month transfer ban by FIFA.

Real Madrid, under returning boss Zinedine Zidane, are making sweeping changes following a disappointing, trophy-less campaign last season.

Kubo joins the likes of <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/it-was-my-dream-to-play-for-real-madrid-says-eden-hazard-at-santiago-bernabeu-unveiling-227043">Belgian playmaker Eden Hazard</a>, striker Luka Jovic and defender Ferland Mendy in making moves to the Santiago Bernabeu in recent weeks.

Japanese striker Takefusa Kubo joined Real Madrid on Friday, with the Spanish La Liga club hailing the 18-year-old as "one of the most promising youngsters in world football".

Japanese striker Takefusa Kubo joined Real Madrid on Friday, with the Spanish La Liga club hailing the 18-year-old as "one of the most promising youngsters in world football". Details of the deal were not disclosed but Spanish newspaper Marca said Real have paid FC Tokyo a two million euro ($2.25 million) transfer fee, while Kubo was expected to have signed a five-year contract. "Takefusa Kubo will come in to strengthen the Castilla ranks next season," La Liga side Real said in a statement on their website. "A technically gifted and hugely talented attacking midfielder, he possesses wonderful vision, quick feet and has an eye for goal," it said. Kubo, who made his Japan debut against El Salvador earlier this month, impressed for table-topping J League side FC Tokyo. He is currently in Brazil with the rest of Hajime Moriyasu’s Japan squad preparing for the Copa America, which begins later on Friday. Samurai Blue’s first game is against Chile on Monday. Kubo’s arrival in Madrid will not be his first taste of Spanish soccer, having joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia youth academy aged nine. Nicknamed the ‘Japanese Messi’, Kubo was earmarked for a future at the Nou Camp but returned to Japan after Barcelona were found guilty of youth transfer breaches and handed a 14-month transfer ban by FIFA. Real Madrid, under returning boss Zinedine Zidane, are making sweeping changes following a disappointing, trophy-less campaign last season. Kubo joins the likes of Belgian playmaker Eden Hazard, striker Luka Jovic and defender Ferland Mendy in making moves to the Santiago Bernabeu in recent weeks.

Real Madrid sign 'Japanese Messi' Takefusa Kubo from FC Tokyo

The signing of Serbia striker Luka Jovic marks the beginning of a "new project" for Real Madrid as they look to return to winning ways next season, club president Florentino Perez said on Wednesday.

Jovic, who joins from Eintracht Frankfurt, is one of Real's three major signings so far after an embarrassing campaign in which they did not win a trophy, sacked two coaches and finished 19 points adrift of La Liga champions Barcelona.

"This is the start of a new project for the next season," Perez told reporters before Jovic was presented to fans in the Santiago Bernabeu stadium as a Madrid player.

"We know we have to work hard because the results have not been what we expected.

"This club never gives up and we will prove it. It was unique and magical to win four Champions League titles in five years... but now we have the responsibility and mission to return to winning ways."

Madrid have also recruited Belgian forward Eden Hazard from Chelsea and Brazilian defender Eder Militao from Porto, while French left-back Ferland Mendy is also reported to be on his way to the Spanish capital from Olympique Lyonnais.

Jovic signed a six-year contract with Madrid after an impressive season with Eintracht, where he scored 17 goals in 32 Bundesliga matches last season and another 10 in 14 Europa League games as they reached the semi-finals.

"I'm the happiest guy in the world to sign for such a big club," the 21-year-old said.

"I'm very excited and sure I made the right decision. I will give everything to help Real Madrid to win more trophies and titles."

The signing of Serbia striker Luka Jovic marks the beginning of a "new project" for Real Madrid as they look to return to winning ways next season, club president Florentino Perez said on Wednesday.

The signing of Serbia striker Luka Jovic marks the beginning of a "new project" for Real Madrid as they look to return to winning ways next season, club president Florentino Perez said on Wednesday. Jovic, who joins from Eintracht Frankfurt, is one of Real's three major signings so far after an embarrassing campaign in which they did not win a trophy, sacked two coaches and finished 19 points adrift of La Liga champions Barcelona. "This is the start of a new project for the next season," Perez told reporters before Jovic was presented to fans in the Santiago Bernabeu stadium as a Madrid player. "We know we have to work hard because the results have not been what we expected. "This club never gives up and we will prove it. It was unique and magical to win four Champions League titles in five years... but now we have the responsibility and mission to return to winning ways." Madrid have also recruited Belgian forward Eden Hazard from Chelsea and Brazilian defender Eder Militao from Porto, while French left-back Ferland Mendy is also reported to be on his way to the Spanish capital from Olympique Lyonnais. Jovic signed a six-year contract with Madrid after an impressive season with Eintracht, where he scored 17 goals in 32 Bundesliga matches last season and another 10 in 14 Europa League games as they reached the semi-finals. "I'm the happiest guy in the world to sign for such a big club," the 21-year-old said. "I'm very excited and sure I made the right decision. I will give everything to help Real Madrid to win more trophies and titles."

Luka Jovic signing kicks off Real rebuilding project, says Florentino Perez

Real Madrid can build a new team around latest signing Eden Hazard, his Belgium coach Roberto Martinez said on the eve of their Euro 2020 qualifier against Scotland on Monday.

Real ended their long pursuit of the winger on Friday when they agreed to sign him from Chelsea on a five-year contract for a reported 100 million euros ($113.15 million).

<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=2ahUKEwj9vrf13uDiAhUo7XMBHfVVAhEQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0AnMsdiYTe3F1MwgSSYPNL">Hazard</a>, who scored 110 goals in 352 games for Chelsea after joining from Lille in 2012, will be officially presented at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium next Thursday.

“He is an unbelievable personality. His focus in a match lies in the winning of the game," Martinez told reporters.

“He is now playing the best football of his career and he is a player around which a new project can be built,” added the Spaniard, whose side top Group I and looking for a fourth win out of four when they host the Scots in Brussels on Tuesday.

“Eden is a phenomenal footballer and I think for him several new chapters can be written about his career. The move to Real is his dream, the perfect next step. The whole transfer happened with a lot of respect. <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=2ahUKEwj9vrf13uDiAhUo7XMBHfVVAhEQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Odpc5LqMU-PD6EUSB6xnX">Eden </a>is an example to all of a player who can go back to all his old clubs with his head held high,'' Martinez said.

Hazard, 28, is moving to Spain after helping Chelsea win the Europa League and finish third in the Premier League.

“I’m looking forward to seeing him at work at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-agree-fee-for-chelseas-eden-hazard-reports-225078&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9vrf13uDiAhUo7XMBHfVVAhEQFjABegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2bJ2n8402HFBozo0WfI0VE">Real</a>,” added Martinez who will be relying on his captain to help beat third-placed Scotland, who are three points behind the leaders.

“I’m not planning to change much,” he said of his team selection after Saturday’s 3-0 home win over Kazakhstan.

“We don’t underestimate any visitors. Scotland have got some real talent and coach Steve Clarke is one of the gentlemen of the game,” Martinez&nbsp;said.

Martinez was subjected at Monday’s news conference to a gentle ribbing about divided family loyalty since his wife, Beth is Scottish.

“Well, we put a ban up at home so we aren't speaking about football since the Kazakhstan game, but I hope that everyone is very upset when I get home.

“She's no problem, it's more, my father-in-law," joked Martinez.

Real Madrid can build a new team around latest signing Eden Hazard, his Belgium coach Roberto Martinez said on the eve of their Euro 2020 qualifier against Scotland on Monday.

Real Madrid can build a new team around latest signing Eden Hazard, his Belgium coach Roberto Martinez said on the eve of their Euro 2020 qualifier against Scotland on Monday. Real ended their long pursuit of the winger on Friday when they agreed to sign him from Chelsea on a five-year contract for a reported 100 million euros ($113.15 million). Hazard, who scored 110 goals in 352 games for Chelsea after joining from Lille in 2012, will be officially presented at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium next Thursday. “He is an unbelievable personality. His focus in a match lies in the winning of the game," Martinez told reporters. “He is now playing the best football of his career and he is a player around which a new project can be built,” added the Spaniard, whose side top Group I and looking for a fourth win out of four when they host the Scots in Brussels on Tuesday. “Eden is a phenomenal footballer and I think for him several new chapters can be written about his career. The move to Real is his dream, the perfect next step. The whole transfer happened with a lot of respect. Eden is an example to all of a player who can go back to all his old clubs with his head held high,'' Martinez said. Hazard, 28, is moving to Spain after helping Chelsea win the Europa League and finish third in the Premier League. “I’m looking forward to seeing him at work at Real,” added Martinez who will be relying on his captain to help beat third-placed Scotland, who are three points behind the leaders. “I’m not planning to change much,” he said of his team selection after Saturday’s 3-0 home win over Kazakhstan. “We don’t underestimate any visitors. Scotland have got some real talent and coach Steve Clarke is one of the gentlemen of the game,” Martinez said. Martinez was subjected at Monday’s news conference to a gentle ribbing about divided family loyalty since his wife, Beth is Scottish. “Well, we put a ban up at home so we aren't speaking about football since the Kazakhstan game, but I hope that everyone is very upset when I get home. “She's no problem, it's more, my father-in-law," joked Martinez.

Eden Hazard could be catalyst for new Real Madrid era, says Belgium coach Roberto Martinez

Real Madrid ended their long pursuit of Eden Hazard on Friday when they agreed to sign the Belgium winger from Chelsea on a five-year contract for a reported 100 million euros ($113.34 million), making him their joint-record signing.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-agree-fee-for-chelseas-eden-hazard-reports-225078&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwin1srYl9niAhV96XMBHZTlCBgQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3CqjAQcErvZb7kx_01blPA">Real </a>did not reveal the fee but Spanish media reports said it was the same price Madrid paid for Gareth Bale when he joined from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013, a staggering amount considering Hazard was set to become a free agent in June 2020.

"Real Madrid and Chelsea have agreed on the transfer for the player Eden Hazard," the Spanish club said in a statement.

"The player will be tied to the club for the next five seasons, until June 30, 2024."

The Belgian will be officially presented at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium next Thursday, subject to completing a medical.

<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=2ahUKEwin1srYl9niAhV96XMBHZTlCBgQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0XAjIWc_phOasa76RZDqIw">Hazard</a>, who becomes Chelsea's most expensive sale, expressed his gratitude to a club where he has spent the last seven years while admitting he had always longed to play for Madrid.

"To my Chelsea friends and family,&nbsp;You now know that I will be joining Real Madrid. It’s no secret that it was my dream to play for them since I was a young boy just scoring my first goal," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-final-a-farewell-match-for-maurizio-sarri-eden-hazard-and-petr-cech-222502&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwin1srYl9niAhV96XMBHZTlCBgQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2_zJFco0ZM8uhUnLaJCGLU">Hazard </a>wrote on his official Facebook account.

"I have tried my very best not to distract myself or the team through this difficult period of speculation and media attention, especially the last six months,"&nbsp;Hazard said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-hazard-scores-twice-as-chelsea-thrash-arsenal-in-final-222607&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwin1srYl9niAhV96XMBHZTlCBgQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1dJFYogtIAORzj491RGB13">Hazard's </a>transfer is the latest in a long run of 'Galactico' signings made by Real but he is also the first top-class player to move to the club since Colombian James Rodriguez in 2014.

ZIDANE ADMIRATION

Real president Florentino Perez said last month that they tried to sign Hazard on several occasions while coach Zinedine Zidane is a long-time admirer of the Belgian, who he named as a "star of the future" in 2010 when Hazard was playing for Lille.

He leaves Chelsea having recently guided the west London club to the Europa League title, scoring twice in a 4-1 win over rivals Arsenal in last month's final in Baku.

The 28-year-old joined <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-best-in-world-i-am-a-lucky-man-to-coach-them-says-maurizio-sarri-222663&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiDnpn4l9niAhVKvo8KHUR6Ct4QFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1KhXSZRXNgquel7uuWfFym">Chelsea </a>from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds ($40.61 million) and won the Europa League in his first season. He also won the Premier League title in 2015 and in 2017 as well as one League Cup and the FA Cup.

He scored 16 goals and created another 15 in the Premier League this season as Chelsea finished third in the table.

"Chelsea and especially Chelsea fans will always be special to me and next season I will look for your results first," Hazard added.

"I hope that we are drawn against each other in the Champions League next season and every season so we can meet again,"&nbsp;Hazard said.

Hazard is Real's third major signing as they bid to rebuild their squad after an embarrassing campaign on all fronts in which they ended up without a trophy, sacked two coaches and finished 19 points adrift of La Liga champions Barcelona.

They have already recruited Brazilian defender Eder Militao from Porto for a reported 50 million euros and Serbian striker Luka Jovic from Eintracht Frankfurt for 60 million euros.

Brazilian forward Rodrygo is also due to join Real next season after agreeing a reported 45 million euro move from Santos last year.

Real Madrid ended their long pursuit of Eden Hazard on Friday when they agreed to sign the Belgium winger from Chelsea on a five-year contract for a reported 100 million euros ($113.

Real Madrid ended their long pursuit of Eden Hazard on Friday when they agreed to sign the Belgium winger from Chelsea on a five-year contract for a reported 100 million euros ($113.34 million), making him their joint-record signing. Real did not reveal the fee but Spanish media reports said it was the same price Madrid paid for Gareth Bale when he joined from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013, a staggering amount considering Hazard was set to become a free agent in June 2020. "Real Madrid and Chelsea have agreed on the transfer for the player Eden Hazard," the Spanish club said in a statement. "The player will be tied to the club for the next five seasons, until June 30, 2024." The Belgian will be officially presented at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium next Thursday, subject to completing a medical. Hazard, who becomes Chelsea's most expensive sale, expressed his gratitude to a club where he has spent the last seven years while admitting he had always longed to play for Madrid. "To my Chelsea friends and family, You now know that I will be joining Real Madrid. It’s no secret that it was my dream to play for them since I was a young boy just scoring my first goal," Hazard wrote on his official Facebook account. "I have tried my very best not to distract myself or the team through this difficult period of speculation and media attention, especially the last six months," Hazard said. Hazard's transfer is the latest in a long run of 'Galactico' signings made by Real but he is also the first top-class player to move to the club since Colombian James Rodriguez in 2014. ZIDANE ADMIRATION Real president Florentino Perez said last month that they tried to sign Hazard on several occasions while coach Zinedine Zidane is a long-time admirer of the Belgian, who he named as a "star of the future" in 2010 when Hazard was playing for Lille. He leaves Chelsea having recently guided the west London club to the Europa League title, scoring twice in a 4-1 win over rivals Arsenal in last month's final in Baku. The 28-year-old joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds ($40.61 million) and won the Europa League in his first season. He also won the Premier League title in 2015 and in 2017 as well as one League Cup and the FA Cup. He scored 16 goals and created another 15 in the Premier League this season as Chelsea finished third in the table. "Chelsea and especially Chelsea fans will always be special to me and next season I will look for your results first," Hazard added. "I hope that we are drawn against each other in the Champions League next season and every season so we can meet again," Hazard said. Hazard is Real's third major signing as they bid to rebuild their squad after an embarrassing campaign on all fronts in which they ended up without a trophy, sacked two coaches and finished 19 points adrift of La Liga champions Barcelona. They have already recruited Brazilian defender Eder Militao from Porto for a reported 50 million euros and Serbian striker Luka Jovic from Eintracht Frankfurt for 60 million euros. Brazilian forward Rodrygo is also due to join Real next season after agreeing a reported 45 million euro move from Santos last year.

Eden Hazard joins Real Madrid on five-year contract for Zidane's re-build

Chelsea forward <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Eden+Hazard">Eden Hazard</a> is set to join Real Madrid after a deal worth €100 million&nbsp;($112.65 million) plus add-ons was agreed between the two clubs on Thursday, British and Spanish media reported.

There was no official word from Madrid or London.

Spain's AS sports daily, citing unnamed sources, said on its website that the Premier League side had accepted Real's offer for the 28-year-old.&nbsp;

It said Hazard, who is training with Belgium ahead of a weekend Euro 2020 qualifier against Kazakhstan, had been informed and the deal could be announced later.

Sky Sports television said Chelsea had wanted in the region of 130 million pounds ($165.20 million), a fee that could ultimately be reached through performance-related clauses.

Hazard, who was set to become a free agent in June 2020, guided Chelsea to the Europa League title in Baku last month with two goals in a 4-1 win over London rivals Arsenal.

"My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years. I think it's a goodbye," he said after that game.

He joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds and won the Europa League in his first season.

He later won the Premier League title in 2015 and 2017 as well as one League Cup and FA Cup.

He scored 16 goals and created another 15 in the Premier League last season as Chelsea finished third in the table.

Chelsea forward Eden Hazard is set to join Real Madrid after a deal worth €100 million ($112.65 million) plus add-ons was agreed between the two clubs on Thursday, British and Spanish media reported.

Chelsea forward Eden Hazard is set to join Real Madrid after a deal worth €100 million ($112.65 million) plus add-ons was agreed between the two clubs on Thursday, British and Spanish media reported. There was no official word from Madrid or London. Spain's AS sports daily, citing unnamed sources, said on its website that the Premier League side had accepted Real's offer for the 28-year-old. It said Hazard, who is training with Belgium ahead of a weekend Euro 2020 qualifier against Kazakhstan, had been informed and the deal could be announced later. Sky Sports television said Chelsea had wanted in the region of 130 million pounds ($165.20 million), a fee that could ultimately be reached through performance-related clauses. Hazard, who was set to become a free agent in June 2020, guided Chelsea to the Europa League title in Baku last month with two goals in a 4-1 win over London rivals Arsenal. "My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years. I think it's a goodbye," he said after that game. He joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds and won the Europa League in his first season. He later won the Premier League title in 2015 and 2017 as well as one League Cup and FA Cup. He scored 16 goals and created another 15 in the Premier League last season as Chelsea finished third in the table.

Real Madrid agree fee for Chelsea's Eden Hazard: Reports

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, fresh from winning the first major title of his managerial career with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-hazard-scores-twice-as-chelsea-thrash-arsenal-in-final-222607">4-1 win over Arsenal</a> in the Europa League final, said he was happy in his role, despite persistent speculation he is close to a return to Italy.

"You know very well that I love the Premier League, the level of the competition," Sarri told reporters.

"I am lucky because I am in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-its-a-goodbye-says-eden-hazard-after-winning-europa-league-for-chelsea-222654">Chelsea</a>, one of the best clubs in the Premier League, one of the best championships in the world," he said.

"So in the moment I am happy but of course I want to know if the club is happy if we can improve," Sarri added.

Sarri had secured Chelsea's place in next year's Champions League with a third-place finish in the Premier League before he led the Londoners to their third European title since 2012 in the Olympic Stadium in Baku.

But many fans made it clear they did not like the Italian's style after a run of poor performances in his first season at the helm, leading to reports the former Napoli manager was considering a return to Serie A.

Sarri, 60, said he would speak to top officials at Chelsea - who have made a habit of hiring and firing managers in quick succession - in the coming days.

"We need to know what the club can do for me. What I can do better for the club," he said.

"In a couple of days, we will decide. But I have a contract so at the moment we are talking about nothing," Sarri added.

Sarri also said he had urged his players to be bolder at halftime in the Europa League final, with the score at 0-0, after failing to make much of a dent in Arsenal in the first 45 minutes.

"At the end of the first half I asked my players to play with more courage," he said.

"We could risk losing but I wanted a team with more courage for moving the ball better and I think that the players did it very well in the second half," added

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, fresh from winning the first major title of his managerial career with a 4-1 win over Arsenal in the Europa League final, said he was happy in his role, despite persistent speculation he is close to a return to Italy.

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, fresh from winning the first major title of his managerial career with a 4-1 win over Arsenal in the Europa League final, said he was happy in his role, despite persistent speculation he is close to a return to Italy. "You know very well that I love the Premier League, the level of the competition," Sarri told reporters. "I am lucky because I am in Chelsea, one of the best clubs in the Premier League, one of the best championships in the world," he said. "So in the moment I am happy but of course I want to know if the club is happy if we can improve," Sarri added. Sarri had secured Chelsea's place in next year's Champions League with a third-place finish in the Premier League before he led the Londoners to their third European title since 2012 in the Olympic Stadium in Baku. But many fans made it clear they did not like the Italian's style after a run of poor performances in his first season at the helm, leading to reports the former Napoli manager was considering a return to Serie A. Sarri, 60, said he would speak to top officials at Chelsea - who have made a habit of hiring and firing managers in quick succession - in the coming days. "We need to know what the club can do for me. What I can do better for the club," he said. "In a couple of days, we will decide. But I have a contract so at the moment we are talking about nothing," Sarri added. Sarri also said he had urged his players to be bolder at halftime in the Europa League final, with the score at 0-0, after failing to make much of a dent in Arsenal in the first 45 minutes. "At the end of the first half I asked my players to play with more courage," he said. "We could risk losing but I wanted a team with more courage for moving the ball better and I think that the players did it very well in the second half," added

'Chelsea best in world': I am a lucky man to coach them, says Maurizio Sarri

Some players may need to leave Arsenal as Unai Emery continues to rebuild the squad the manager has said after they were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-hazard-scores-twice-as-chelsea-thrash-arsenal-in-final-222607">thrashed 4-1 by Chelsea</a> in the Europa League final in Baku.

Second-half goals from Olivier Giroud, Pedro and a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-its-a-goodbye-says-eden-hazard-after-winning-europa-league-for-chelsea-222654">double from Eden Hazard</a> ensured Arsenal failed to win their fourth successive European final.

Emery said his team, who finished fifth in the Premier League, were still very much in a "process" and he would evaluate his options over the summer.

"We need to speak with the club, speak with the players, and do one step more in our way," Emery said.

"But our idea is to continue carrying on improving with the young players who arrived last year,'' he said.

"Maybe some players need to leave, to take a new way. We are closer to the other teams. At the moment it's not enough, but we can continue with the same team next year. Other players will come in and help us get better in our capacity," Emery added.

The defeat means Arsenal failed to earn a spot in next season's Champions League for the third successive season, but Emery said another Europa League campaign would not put off potential targets joining the club.

"I think Arsenal is a big name in the football world, and a lot of players want to play here," Emery said.

"The transfers, I don't know for next year. But the club is working to improve and to take all we need to go our way. Also we have a lot of players with the possibility to improve," Emery added.

Emery, however, conceded that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-its-a-goodbye-says-eden-hazard-after-winning-europa-league-for-chelsea-222654">Chelsea </a>had deserved the victory.

"We tried to stay in the match but their second goal made it difficult for us. It was going better for them and when we wanted to do something, we couldn't find what we needed to score. They deserved to win," Emery said.

Some players may need to leave Arsenal as Unai Emery continues to rebuild the squad the manager has said after they were thrashed 4-1 by Chelsea in the Europa League final in Baku.

Some players may need to leave Arsenal as Unai Emery continues to rebuild the squad the manager has said after they were thrashed 4-1 by Chelsea in the Europa League final in Baku. Second-half goals from Olivier Giroud, Pedro and a double from Eden Hazard ensured Arsenal failed to win their fourth successive European final. Emery said his team, who finished fifth in the Premier League, were still very much in a "process" and he would evaluate his options over the summer. "We need to speak with the club, speak with the players, and do one step more in our way," Emery said. "But our idea is to continue carrying on improving with the young players who arrived last year,'' he said. "Maybe some players need to leave, to take a new way. We are closer to the other teams. At the moment it's not enough, but we can continue with the same team next year. Other players will come in and help us get better in our capacity," Emery added. The defeat means Arsenal failed to earn a spot in next season's Champions League for the third successive season, but Emery said another Europa League campaign would not put off potential targets joining the club. "I think Arsenal is a big name in the football world, and a lot of players want to play here," Emery said. "The transfers, I don't know for next year. But the club is working to improve and to take all we need to go our way. Also we have a lot of players with the possibility to improve," Emery added. Emery, however, conceded that Chelsea had deserved the victory. "We tried to stay in the match but their second goal made it difficult for us. It was going better for them and when we wanted to do something, we couldn't find what we needed to score. They deserved to win," Emery said.

Chelsea deserved to win, says Arsenal coach Unai Emery after Europa League final defeat

After scoring twice in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-hazard-scores-twice-as-chelsea-thrash-arsenal-in-final-222607">Chelsea's 4-1 win over Arsenal </a>in the Europa League final, Eden Hazard said it was the moment to call time on his magnificent career with the London club to seek new challenges.

The Belgian is widely expected to join Real Madrid and he capped a superb display against Premier League rivals Arsenal by converting from the penalty spot to make it 3-0 before adding the fourth to complete the rout.

"My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-final-a-farewell-match-for-maurizio-sarri-eden-hazard-and-petr-cech-222502"> I think it's a goodbye,</a>" Hazard told BT Sport.

Chelsea had broken the deadlock in the 49th minute through former Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud and Hazard created the second goal for substitute Pedro.

"It was good. The first half both teams had a bit of stress because it was a final. But when Olly (Giroud) scored it was the beginning of a great night," Hazard said.

"We played well in the second half. We tried to play our football and we knew we had the players to do that. It is a great trophy to win," he added.

Hazard, 28, joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds ($40.41 million) and won the Europa League in his first season, later winning the Premier League title in 2015 and 2017 as well as one League Cup and one FA Cup.

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'Today we showed this mentality and for the boys, for the manager, the fans and the staff, it is a great trophy to win.’<a href="https://twitter.com/hazardeden10?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HazardEden10</a>'s thoughts... 👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UELfinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UELfinal</a>
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Real Madrid have not tried to hide their desire to sign the Hazard, with president Florentino Perez admitting this week that he has been chasing his signature for years and expects to land the Belgian this summer.

After scoring twice in Chelsea's 4-1 win over Arsenal in the Europa League final, Eden Hazard said it was the moment to call time on his magnificent career with the London club to seek new challenges.

After scoring twice in Chelsea's 4-1 win over Arsenal in the Europa League final, Eden Hazard said it was the moment to call time on his magnificent career with the London club to seek new challenges. The Belgian is widely expected to join Real Madrid and he capped a superb display against Premier League rivals Arsenal by converting from the penalty spot to make it 3-0 before adding the fourth to complete the rout. "My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years. I think it's a goodbye," Hazard told BT Sport. Chelsea had broken the deadlock in the 49th minute through former Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud and Hazard created the second goal for substitute Pedro. "It was good. The first half both teams had a bit of stress because it was a final. But when Olly (Giroud) scored it was the beginning of a great night," Hazard said. "We played well in the second half. We tried to play our football and we knew we had the players to do that. It is a great trophy to win," he added. Hazard, 28, joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds ($40.41 million) and won the Europa League in his first season, later winning the Premier League title in 2015 and 2017 as well as one League Cup and one FA Cup. 'Today we showed this mentality and for the boys, for the manager, the fans and the staff, it is a great trophy to win.’@HazardEden10's thoughts... 👇#UELfinal — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) May 29, 2019 × Real Madrid have not tried to hide their desire to sign the Hazard, with president Florentino Perez admitting this week that he has been chasing his signature for years and expects to land the Belgian this summer.

'I think it's a goodbye', says Eden Hazard after winning Europa League for Chelsea

Chelsea lift the Europa League cup as Hazard scores twice as parting gift

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-and-chelsea-ready-for-final-europa-league-battle-in-distant-baku-222488">Europa League final between Chelsea and Arsenal</a> in Baku could be the farewell match for Chelsea head coach&nbsp;Maurizio Sarri and Eden Hazard as they are set to leave, while Arsenal could see Petr Cech retiring after the final clash.&nbsp;

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, who has been heavily linked with a move to Juventus, had earlier said winning the final would turn a "very good season" into a "wonderful" one.

Sarri is still to win a major trophy, but he has already steered the Blues to a return to the Champions League and also took them to the League Cup final, where they lost on penalties to Manchester City.

The game could also be <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-coach-maurizio-sarri-doesnt-want-eden-hazard-to-leave-the-club-220875&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjKjLGYx8DiAhXRfSsKHVdNDfMQFjABegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1_Lzsd-37P5GlD6tz0JjiR">Eden Hazard's</a> last as a Chelsea player amid reports he will finally move on to Real Madrid.

It will definitely be the last game for Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech, who will retire afterwards at the age of 37.

A Chelsea great who crossed London in 2015, he has been tipped for a return to Stamford Bridge in an upstairs capacity.

"I can speak about Petr Cech a lot, but above all he's a great man, a great professional. I want to do something important, with him playing or not playing,"&nbsp;&nbsp;Arsenal coach Emery said.

Bernd Leno is the other option in goal, while Chelsea are sweating on the fitness of midfielder N'Golo Kante.

"Kante has a very little problem with his knee. The problem is the timing, but we are trying," said Sarri.

The Europa League final between Chelsea and Arsenal in Baku could be the farewell match for Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri and Eden Hazard as they are set to leave, while Arsenal could see Petr Cech retiring after the final clash.

The Europa League final between Chelsea and Arsenal in Baku could be the farewell match for Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri and Eden Hazard as they are set to leave, while Arsenal could see Petr Cech retiring after the final clash. Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, who has been heavily linked with a move to Juventus, had earlier said winning the final would turn a "very good season" into a "wonderful" one. Sarri is still to win a major trophy, but he has already steered the Blues to a return to the Champions League and also took them to the League Cup final, where they lost on penalties to Manchester City. The game could also be Eden Hazard's last as a Chelsea player amid reports he will finally move on to Real Madrid. It will definitely be the last game for Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech, who will retire afterwards at the age of 37. A Chelsea great who crossed London in 2015, he has been tipped for a return to Stamford Bridge in an upstairs capacity. "I can speak about Petr Cech a lot, but above all he's a great man, a great professional. I want to do something important, with him playing or not playing," Arsenal coach Emery said. Bernd Leno is the other option in goal, while Chelsea are sweating on the fitness of midfielder N'Golo Kante. "Kante has a very little problem with his knee. The problem is the timing, but we are trying," said Sarri.

Europa league final: A farewell match for Maurizio Sarri, Eden Hazard and Petr Cech?

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez confirmed on Monday the club are keen to sign <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-eden-hazard-puts-europa-league-trophy-before-transfer-talk-217496&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwit9a_Tz73iAhX0juYKHcgECMoQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2zUCl_0kt-nydbCr0tzvXf">Eden Hazard</a> this summer and claimed Sergio Ramos has an offer to move to China.

Hazard could play his last match for Chelsea in the Europa League final against Arsenal on Wednesday, with the Belgian's contract expiring next year.

"I have a lot of interest in him coming to Madrid, I'm not going to lie, and I hope this year he can play here," Perez told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Monday night.

"We have wanted to sign <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-coach-maurizio-sarri-doesnt-want-eden-hazard-to-leave-the-club-220875&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiKu8Xpz73iAhWhguYKHbdHCKQQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0p1khsRb-hh1y_0CaI_f4S">Hazard </a>for several years and I hope he will come this year. Until now we have not achieved it, but this time his contract ends next year," Perez said.

After a disappointing season, Madrid are expected to overhaul their squad this summer and Perez suggested the club's captain Ramos is considering a move.

Ramos and Perez argued after Madrid's Champions League defeat to Ajax in March, with Ramos reportedly telling Perez the team's failings were down to a failure to replace Cristiano Ronaldo.

Perez claimed on Tuesday that Ramos had been offered a move to China but said he had blocked the defender's departure.

"We met in my office and he told me he had a very good offer from a Chinese team but a rule there means they cannot pay for the transfer," Perez said.

"It was no more than that, it was a conversation that has no interest. It is impossible for Real Madrid to let their captain go for free. I told him it's impossible, nothing more," Perez said.

Perez was also asked about the possibility of Madrid signing Kylian Mbappe or Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain.

"I have not spoken with Zinedine Zidane about either Mbappe or Neymar," said Perez, insisting he wants to maintain a good relationship with PSG.

"If we want a player of PSG, we will call the club's president," he said.&nbsp;

Gareth Bale's future remains uncertain but Perez said, "we have not received any offers for any players of Real Madrid".

He also condemned the recent criticism of players like Bale, that has come from Madrid's fans and sections of the Spanish press.

"We have made it seem like winning the Champions League is normal and it isn't. We have deceived people," said Perez.

"Some of these players have been insulted, they have been whistled, players who are going to go into the history of the club. It's not right," Perez said.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez confirmed on Monday the club are keen to sign Eden Hazard this summer and claimed Sergio Ramos has an offer to move to China.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez confirmed on Monday the club are keen to sign Eden Hazard this summer and claimed Sergio Ramos has an offer to move to China. Hazard could play his last match for Chelsea in the Europa League final against Arsenal on Wednesday, with the Belgian's contract expiring next year. "I have a lot of interest in him coming to Madrid, I'm not going to lie, and I hope this year he can play here," Perez told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Monday night. "We have wanted to sign Hazard for several years and I hope he will come this year. Until now we have not achieved it, but this time his contract ends next year," Perez said. After a disappointing season, Madrid are expected to overhaul their squad this summer and Perez suggested the club's captain Ramos is considering a move. Ramos and Perez argued after Madrid's Champions League defeat to Ajax in March, with Ramos reportedly telling Perez the team's failings were down to a failure to replace Cristiano Ronaldo. Perez claimed on Tuesday that Ramos had been offered a move to China but said he had blocked the defender's departure. "We met in my office and he told me he had a very good offer from a Chinese team but a rule there means they cannot pay for the transfer," Perez said. "It was no more than that, it was a conversation that has no interest. It is impossible for Real Madrid to let their captain go for free. I told him it's impossible, nothing more," Perez said. Perez was also asked about the possibility of Madrid signing Kylian Mbappe or Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain. "I have not spoken with Zinedine Zidane about either Mbappe or Neymar," said Perez, insisting he wants to maintain a good relationship with PSG. "If we want a player of PSG, we will call the club's president," he said. Gareth Bale's future remains uncertain but Perez said, "we have not received any offers for any players of Real Madrid". He also condemned the recent criticism of players like Bale, that has come from Madrid's fans and sections of the Spanish press. "We have made it seem like winning the Champions League is normal and it isn't. We have deceived people," said Perez. "Some of these players have been insulted, they have been whistled, players who are going to go into the history of the club. It's not right," Perez said.

I hope Eden Hazard comes to Madrid this year, says club President Florentino Perez

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has expressed his desire of keeping<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-eden-hazard-puts-europa-league-trophy-before-transfer-talk-217496&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiaq9mwj7HiAhXJuo8KHbGCAEgQFjAGegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Y4-IEynLw_O3qNYvvmyoe"> Eden Hazard</a> to the club, as the Belgian's contract is due to expire at the end of next season.

"I don't know. As I said in every press conference, I want to respect his decision. I hope that he will stay with us, but we need to be ready if he will decide something different," Goal.com quoted Sarri as saying.

"Also if I have spoken with him, I don't want to say anything. Hazard is good for every team, of course, but he's really very good for us," he added.

Moreover, in January, Chelsea agreed a $73 million move for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-new-forward-pulisic-wants-to-emulate-hazards-success-at-club-220643/amp&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiKloH8jrHiAhXIiHAKHb21A6wQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw00onqXEla7-4ToTZZfPqo0">Christian Pulisic</a>, who they loaned back to Borussia Dortmund for the rest of the season.

Sarri said the United States international is ready to join the group and eulogised Pulisic by calling him 'really very strong'&nbsp;but further added that there is room for improvement.

"I spoke with him two or three months ago. Pulisic knows very well our team, our way of playing, his team-mates. So he's ready to join the group," he said.

"Christian is a very young player, of course, but he is really very strong. So I'm really very happy. He has the possibility to improve more, so he could become a very important player for us," Sarri added.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has expressed his desire of keeping Eden Hazard to the club, as the Belgian's contract is due to expire at the end of next season.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has expressed his desire of keeping Eden Hazard to the club, as the Belgian's contract is due to expire at the end of next season. "I don't know. As I said in every press conference, I want to respect his decision. I hope that he will stay with us, but we need to be ready if he will decide something different," Goal.com quoted Sarri as saying. "Also if I have spoken with him, I don't want to say anything. Hazard is good for every team, of course, but he's really very good for us," he added. Moreover, in January, Chelsea agreed a $73 million move for Christian Pulisic, who they loaned back to Borussia Dortmund for the rest of the season. Sarri said the United States international is ready to join the group and eulogised Pulisic by calling him 'really very strong' but further added that there is room for improvement. "I spoke with him two or three months ago. Pulisic knows very well our team, our way of playing, his team-mates. So he's ready to join the group," he said. "Christian is a very young player, of course, but he is really very strong. So I'm really very happy. He has the possibility to improve more, so he could become a very important player for us," Sarri added.

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri doesn't want Eden Hazard to leave the club

Chelsea's new forward Christian Pulisic believes he can reach the same level as Stamford Bridge talisman Eden Hazard and is hoping to team up with the Belgium playmaker next season.

The 20-year-old US international Pulisic joined Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund in January for a reported fee of 58 million pounds ($73.40 million) but was immediately loaned back to the German club for the rest of the season.

With Hazard, 28, linked by British and Spanish media with a move to Real Madrid in the close season, Pulisic could be asked to fill the void and feels he is ready for the challenge.

Hazard has won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, league Cup and Europa League crown in seven years at the club.

Asked if he could be as good as Hazard, Pulisic told Sky Sports: "Of course, I want to believe that I can be the best player I can possibly be.

"That's why I work so hard every day and why I thought it was necessary for me to take this next step in my career and to come here. I have so much more to learn as a player and am excited to see what the future holds.

"It's a great compliment (to be compared to Hazard), he's obviously much further along in his career than I am. He is an unbelievable player."

Pulisic, the most expensive American soccer player of all time, could be Chelsea's only new signing ahead of the 2019-20 campaign as they face a two-window transfer ban.

He has mostly played on the right wing for Dortmund this season but could be asked to move to the left flank or take up the number 10 role depending on Hazard's future at the club.

"I guess I have a similar style with an attacking and creative mindset like he does, he's very quick and shifty," Pulisic added.

"There's a lot to learn from him. It would be a great goal to do what he does. Everyone can see he is an unbelievable player and I would be honoured to play alongside him."

Chelsea's new forward Christian Pulisic believes he can reach the same level as Stamford Bridge talisman Eden Hazard and is hoping to team up with the Belgium playmaker next season.

Chelsea's new forward Christian Pulisic believes he can reach the same level as Stamford Bridge talisman Eden Hazard and is hoping to team up with the Belgium playmaker next season. The 20-year-old US international Pulisic joined Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund in January for a reported fee of 58 million pounds ($73.40 million) but was immediately loaned back to the German club for the rest of the season. With Hazard, 28, linked by British and Spanish media with a move to Real Madrid in the close season, Pulisic could be asked to fill the void and feels he is ready for the challenge. Hazard has won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, league Cup and Europa League crown in seven years at the club. Asked if he could be as good as Hazard, Pulisic told Sky Sports: "Of course, I want to believe that I can be the best player I can possibly be. "That's why I work so hard every day and why I thought it was necessary for me to take this next step in my career and to come here. I have so much more to learn as a player and am excited to see what the future holds. "It's a great compliment (to be compared to Hazard), he's obviously much further along in his career than I am. He is an unbelievable player." Pulisic, the most expensive American soccer player of all time, could be Chelsea's only new signing ahead of the 2019-20 campaign as they face a two-window transfer ban. He has mostly played on the right wing for Dortmund this season but could be asked to move to the left flank or take up the number 10 role depending on Hazard's future at the club. "I guess I have a similar style with an attacking and creative mindset like he does, he's very quick and shifty," Pulisic added. "There's a lot to learn from him. It would be a great goal to do what he does. Everyone can see he is an unbelievable player and I would be honoured to play alongside him."

Chelsea's new forward Pulisic wants to emulate Hazard's success at club

Europa League: How Arsenal learnt from last season's mistake, Aubameyang elaborates

Eden Hazard will do everything in his power to help <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/kepa-arrizabalagas-heroics-in-shootout-against-eintracht-frankfurt-puts-chelsea-in-europa-cup-final-217359&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjiyLq65pDiAhU88HMBHdhGCksQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2M9CJ5E5F3au6MTSmnDf1S">Chelsea </a>win the Europa League later this month in what might be his final game for the Premier League club, the playmaker has said.

Hazard converted the decisive spot-kick in the 4-3 shootout win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday that sent Chelsea into the May 29 <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/europa-league-how-arsenal-learnt-from-last-seasons-mistake-aubameyang-elaborates-217434&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiv6Nyg5pDiAhVJto8KHeegDfcQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3tUeIEQi5bCksFvQq-qPwY">final against fellow London club Arsenal in Baku.</a>

The 28-year-old is expected to leave Chelsea at the end of the season after seven years at Stamford Bridge, with British media linking him with a move to Real Madrid.

"If it's my last game I will try to do everything for this club to win a trophy," Hazard told BT Sport.

"In my mind I don't know yet, I don't think about that. I'm only thinking about winning something for this club and this squad.

"We played a great game but the semi-final is not so easy. We are happy and we will go to Baku to try to win the trophy", Hazard said.

Hazard's teammates Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Willian hoped the Belgian would stay at the club. Chelsea will not be allowed to sign a replacement if Hazard leaves after FIFA upheld the one-year transfer ban earlier this week.

"I'm sure everyone here, and us players, would love him to stay and be a Chelsea player until he finishes his career," Loftus-Cheek said.

"But who knows what he's thinking. Over the last seven, eight years he's been fantastic -- the trophies he has helped us win. Whatever decision he makes we will respect it",&nbsp;Loftus-Cheek added.

Willian said,&nbsp;"He's one of the best players in the world. For me I hope he stays, but in football, you never know."

"I think his head is here, to play for Chelsea. Then after he's finished the season maybe he can talk about his situation", Willian added.

With Chelsea playing away at Leicester City on the final day of the league season, the penalty could be Hazard's last kick of a ball at Stamford Bridge but he knows there remains a big job to do in Azerbaijan.

"I always take my responsibility when I have to," said Hazard, who has 19 goals this season.

"Today we are happy but it's not finished. We have another game to play against Arsenal. We need to go there and play with quality and win the game", Hazard said.

Eden Hazard will do everything in his power to help Chelsea win the Europa League later this month in what might be his final game for the Premier League club, the playmaker has said.

Eden Hazard will do everything in his power to help Chelsea win the Europa League later this month in what might be his final game for the Premier League club, the playmaker has said. Hazard converted the decisive spot-kick in the 4-3 shootout win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday that sent Chelsea into the May 29 final against fellow London club Arsenal in Baku. The 28-year-old is expected to leave Chelsea at the end of the season after seven years at Stamford Bridge, with British media linking him with a move to Real Madrid. "If it's my last game I will try to do everything for this club to win a trophy," Hazard told BT Sport. "In my mind I don't know yet, I don't think about that. I'm only thinking about winning something for this club and this squad. "We played a great game but the semi-final is not so easy. We are happy and we will go to Baku to try to win the trophy", Hazard said. Hazard's teammates Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Willian hoped the Belgian would stay at the club. Chelsea will not be allowed to sign a replacement if Hazard leaves after FIFA upheld the one-year transfer ban earlier this week. "I'm sure everyone here, and us players, would love him to stay and be a Chelsea player until he finishes his career," Loftus-Cheek said. "But who knows what he's thinking. Over the last seven, eight years he's been fantastic -- the trophies he has helped us win. Whatever decision he makes we will respect it", Loftus-Cheek added. Willian said, "He's one of the best players in the world. For me I hope he stays, but in football, you never know." "I think his head is here, to play for Chelsea. Then after he's finished the season maybe he can talk about his situation", Willian added. With Chelsea playing away at Leicester City on the final day of the league season, the penalty could be Hazard's last kick of a ball at Stamford Bridge but he knows there remains a big job to do in Azerbaijan. "I always take my responsibility when I have to," said Hazard, who has 19 goals this season. "Today we are happy but it's not finished. We have another game to play against Arsenal. We need to go there and play with quality and win the game", Hazard said.

Chelsea's Eden Hazard puts Europa League trophy before transfer talk

Belgium national team captain Eden Hazard displayed his dribbling skills to help Chelsea beat West Ham United 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.

By virtue of this win, Chelsea moved to third place in the Premier League standings.&nbsp;

Hazard was in top form, scoring a brace to take his tally of goals in the Premier League to 16. Hazard has been directly involved in 28 goals this season, the most for any player in the Premier League.&nbsp;

His opener came in the 24th minute and will surely go down as one of the contenders for the goal of the season.&nbsp;

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If you didn’t watch last nights game or if you are like me and want to watch Eden Hazard’s fantastic individual goal again here it is! 
 
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After the match, Eden Hazard admitted his first goal was "something special".&nbsp;

Chelsea is now two points clear of Tottenham and three ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal in the race for a top-four finish.

Belgium national team captain Eden Hazard displayed his dribbling skills to help Chelsea beat West Ham United 2-0 at Stamford Bridge. By virtue of this win, Chelsea moved to third place in the Premier League standings.

Belgium national team captain Eden Hazard displayed his dribbling skills to help Chelsea beat West Ham United 2-0 at Stamford Bridge. By virtue of this win, Chelsea moved to third place in the Premier League standings. Hazard was in top form, scoring a brace to take his tally of goals in the Premier League to 16. Hazard has been directly involved in 28 goals this season, the most for any player in the Premier League. His opener came in the 24th minute and will surely go down as one of the contenders for the goal of the season. If you didn’t watch last nights game or if you are like me and want to watch Eden Hazard’s fantastic individual goal again here it is! pic.twitter.com/1Ttn7ysdrr — Daily Football (@DailyFootball90) April 9, 2019 × After the match, Eden Hazard admitted his first goal was "something special". Chelsea is now two points clear of Tottenham and three ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal in the race for a top-four finish.

Watch: Eden Hazard's spectacular solo goal against West Ham United

Eden Hazard marked his 100th cap with an early goal to set Belgium on their way to a comfortable 2-0 away win over Cyprus in their Euro 2020 qualifier on Sunday.

Michy Batshuayi got the other goal for the top team in the FIFA rankings, who began their campaign last Thursday with a 3-1 home success over Russia and now have six points from their opening two games in Group I.

Hazard opened the scoring after 10 minutes with a curling shot after Batshuayi had set him up. It was his 30th international goal as the 28-year-old Chelsea star became the third Belgian to reach the 100-cap mark after Jan Vertonghen and Axel Witsel.

Batshuayi doubled the score eight minutes later, running on to a pass over the top of the home defence from Thorgan Hazard, knocking it past the onrushing goalkeeper Urko Pardo and sliding the ball into the empty net from a tight angle.

Belgium, without injured regulars Kevin de Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Witsel, cruised through the rest of the contest to stretch to 12 games their unbeaten record against the Cypriots, who had beaten San Marino 5-0 at home on Thursday in their opening qualifier.

Earlier on Thursday, Denis Cheryshev scored twice as Russia won 4-0 away in Kazakhstan for their first points of the campaign.

His first-half pair of goals were followed by two more early in the second half in Arana, from Artem Dzyuba and an own goal by Kazakh defender Abzal Beysebekov.

Eden Hazard marked his 100th cap with an early goal to set Belgium on their way to a comfortable 2-0 away win over Cyprus in their Euro 2020 qualifier on Sunday.

Eden Hazard marked his 100th cap with an early goal to set Belgium on their way to a comfortable 2-0 away win over Cyprus in their Euro 2020 qualifier on Sunday. Michy Batshuayi got the other goal for the top team in the FIFA rankings, who began their campaign last Thursday with a 3-1 home success over Russia and now have six points from their opening two games in Group I. Hazard opened the scoring after 10 minutes with a curling shot after Batshuayi had set him up. It was his 30th international goal as the 28-year-old Chelsea star became the third Belgian to reach the 100-cap mark after Jan Vertonghen and Axel Witsel. Batshuayi doubled the score eight minutes later, running on to a pass over the top of the home defence from Thorgan Hazard, knocking it past the onrushing goalkeeper Urko Pardo and sliding the ball into the empty net from a tight angle. Belgium, without injured regulars Kevin de Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Witsel, cruised through the rest of the contest to stretch to 12 games their unbeaten record against the Cypriots, who had beaten San Marino 5-0 at home on Thursday in their opening qualifier. Earlier on Thursday, Denis Cheryshev scored twice as Russia won 4-0 away in Kazakhstan for their first points of the campaign. His first-half pair of goals were followed by two more early in the second half in Arana, from Artem Dzyuba and an own goal by Kazakh defender Abzal Beysebekov.

Euro 2020 qualifier: Eden Hazard marks milestone with early goal to help Belgium win

Belgium midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Eden+Hazard">Eden Hazard</a> has denied reports that he has agreed to a deal to move from Premier League club Chelsea to Spanish giants Real Madrid.&nbsp;

He said, "There's nothing there. Today I'm focusing on tomorrow's match against Cyprus. That's the only thing in my head now."&nbsp;

The media reports suggested Hazard had agreed to join Real after speaking to their coach, Zinedine Zidane.&nbsp;

Hazard was speaking at a press conference in Cyprus ahead of Belgium's Euro 2020 qualifier in Nicosia on Sunday in which he will win his 100th international cap.&nbsp;

Asked how long he hoped to continue playing for the national side, Hazard said, "I am going to see how, at 28, my body reacts."&nbsp;

"I'm in great form, but with the accumulation of matches, sometimes it gets a bit complicated. Of course one wants to play in the maximum of major tournaments."&nbsp;

"There are the Euros coming up, another World Cup, then another Euros. So we will see. And, as I have already said, if I see that the next generation is growing, for me there won't be a problem. I will cede my place to the younger ones."&nbsp;

Recently, former Belgium World Cup star Enzo Scifo described Hazard as the best Belgian player of all time.&nbsp;

Belgium midfielder Eden Hazard has denied reports that he has agreed to a deal to move from Premier League club Chelsea to Spanish giants Real Madrid. He said, "There's nothing there.

Belgium midfielder Eden Hazard has denied reports that he has agreed to a deal to move from Premier League club Chelsea to Spanish giants Real Madrid. He said, "There's nothing there. Today I'm focusing on tomorrow's match against Cyprus. That's the only thing in my head now." The media reports suggested Hazard had agreed to join Real after speaking to their coach, Zinedine Zidane. Hazard was speaking at a press conference in Cyprus ahead of Belgium's Euro 2020 qualifier in Nicosia on Sunday in which he will win his 100th international cap. Asked how long he hoped to continue playing for the national side, Hazard said, "I am going to see how, at 28, my body reacts." "I'm in great form, but with the accumulation of matches, sometimes it gets a bit complicated. Of course one wants to play in the maximum of major tournaments." "There are the Euros coming up, another World Cup, then another Euros. So we will see. And, as I have already said, if I see that the next generation is growing, for me there won't be a problem. I will cede my place to the younger ones." Recently, former Belgium World Cup star Enzo Scifo described Hazard as the best Belgian player of all time.

Chelsea's Eden Hazard denies reports he has signed deal with Real Madrid

Captain Eden Hazard scored twice for Belgium to spare the blushes of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and secure a 3-1 victory over Russia in their Euro 2020 Group I qualifier at the King Baudouin Stadium on Thursday.

Courtois allowed Russia a soft equaliser after his error gifted a goal to Denis Cheryshev, but Belgium claimed a deserved victory when Youri Tielemans opened the scoring with his first international goal and Hazard added two more, one from the penalty spot.

Striker Michy Batshuayi was asked to lead the line in the absence of the injured Romelu Lukaku, while the Hazard brothers, Eden and Thorgan, played together for the third time in a national team shirt.

Belgium led on 15 minutes when Timothy Castagne’s pass fed Tielemans on the edge of the box and as Russia’s defensive line opened up, the midfielder fired a low shot past goalkeeper Guilherme Marinato.

But the lead lasted barely a minute as a horror error from Courtois gifted Cheryshev the equaliser.

The keeper dallied in possession following a back-pass and when pressed into action, passed the ball straight to Cheryshev on the edge of the box who finished into an empty net.

Batshuayi came close to restoring the lead when the Hazard brothers led a breakaway from a Russian corner and when the ball fell to the striker in the box, his shot beat Marinato but not defender Georgiy Dzhikiya on the goalline.

Belgium, World Cup semi-finalists last year, scored their second just before the break when Eden Hazard was fouled in the box by Yuri Zhirkov and stepped up to convert the spot-kick and give his side a 2-1 lead at halftime.

Batshuayi should have added a third for the home side when he was left unmarked and turned a low cross on to the post from eight yards out.

Skipper Hazard netted the third when he picked up the loose ball in the box after Batshuayi’s shot was blocked and the visitors finished the game with 10 following a late red card for Aleksandr Golovin.

Earlier, Cyprus stormed to the top of the Group I standings with a 5-0 victory over San Marino in Nicosia.

Striker Pieros Sotiriou converted two penalties to go with goals from Ioannis Kousoulos, Georgios Efrem and Konstantinos Laifis.

Captain Eden Hazard scored twice for Belgium to spare the blushes of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and secure a 3-1 victory over Russia in their Euro 2020 Group I qualifier at the King Baudouin Stadium on Thursday.

Captain Eden Hazard scored twice for Belgium to spare the blushes of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and secure a 3-1 victory over Russia in their Euro 2020 Group I qualifier at the King Baudouin Stadium on Thursday. Courtois allowed Russia a soft equaliser after his error gifted a goal to Denis Cheryshev, but Belgium claimed a deserved victory when Youri Tielemans opened the scoring with his first international goal and Hazard added two more, one from the penalty spot. Striker Michy Batshuayi was asked to lead the line in the absence of the injured Romelu Lukaku, while the Hazard brothers, Eden and Thorgan, played together for the third time in a national team shirt. Belgium led on 15 minutes when Timothy Castagne’s pass fed Tielemans on the edge of the box and as Russia’s defensive line opened up, the midfielder fired a low shot past goalkeeper Guilherme Marinato. But the lead lasted barely a minute as a horror error from Courtois gifted Cheryshev the equaliser. The keeper dallied in possession following a back-pass and when pressed into action, passed the ball straight to Cheryshev on the edge of the box who finished into an empty net. Batshuayi came close to restoring the lead when the Hazard brothers led a breakaway from a Russian corner and when the ball fell to the striker in the box, his shot beat Marinato but not defender Georgiy Dzhikiya on the goalline. Belgium, World Cup semi-finalists last year, scored their second just before the break when Eden Hazard was fouled in the box by Yuri Zhirkov and stepped up to convert the spot-kick and give his side a 2-1 lead at halftime. Batshuayi should have added a third for the home side when he was left unmarked and turned a low cross on to the post from eight yards out. Skipper Hazard netted the third when he picked up the loose ball in the box after Batshuayi’s shot was blocked and the visitors finished the game with 10 following a late red card for Aleksandr Golovin. Earlier, Cyprus stormed to the top of the Group I standings with a 5-0 victory over San Marino in Nicosia. Striker Pieros Sotiriou converted two penalties to go with goals from Ioannis Kousoulos, Georgios Efrem and Konstantinos Laifis.

Belgium overcome Thibaut Courtois howler to sink Russia

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal.&nbsp;

Hazard smashed the ball past Rui Patricio in the 92nd minute after constant pressure from the home side, who are bidding for a top-four place.&nbsp;

Chelsea had been stunned in the 57th minute when Jimenez burst out of defence with Diogo Jota and the pair sliced through Chelsea's ranks before the Portuguese laid off the ball from wide for Jimenez to slot home.&nbsp;

Patricio made a sharp save shortly afterwards from striker Gonzalo Higuain and another from Willian in the dying minutes. Chelsea had 22 shots to the visitors' two and also enjoyed 76 per cent of possession.&nbsp;

The result leaves Chelsea in the sixth, level with Arsenal and behind Manchester United who were playing each other later on Sunday.&nbsp;

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal.

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal. Hazard smashed the ball past Rui Patricio in the 92nd minute after constant pressure from the home side, who are bidding for a top-four place. Chelsea had been stunned in the 57th minute when Jimenez burst out of defence with Diogo Jota and the pair sliced through Chelsea's ranks before the Portuguese laid off the ball from wide for Jimenez to slot home. Patricio made a sharp save shortly afterwards from striker Gonzalo Higuain and another from Willian in the dying minutes. Chelsea had 22 shots to the visitors' two and also enjoyed 76 per cent of possession. The result leaves Chelsea in the sixth, level with Arsenal and behind Manchester United who were playing each other later on Sunday.

Eden Hazard saves point for Chelsea in 1-1 draw with Wolves

Belgian international Eden Hazard has the talent and personality to succeed at Real Madrid if he chooses to leave Chelsea for the La Liga giants, his former manager Jose Mourinho has said.

Hazard, who will become a free agent in June 2020, said last year it was his dream to play for 13-times European champions Real, and British media have since reported that talks with Chelsea over a contract extension have been put on hold.

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri said last month that Hazard was free to leave the Premier League club if the 28-year-old had his heart set on a move.

"Does he have the talent to play for Real Madrid? He does," former Real boss Mourinho, who managed Hazard at Chelsea from 2013 to 2015, told sports streaming service DAZN Espana.

"Does he have the personality to put on a 'super-heavy' shirt and play in front of the fans at the Bernabeu? Yes, he has the personality.

"Regarding Eden's ambitions... be it playing for Chelsea his whole life or playing for a giant like Real Madrid, I can't say, because I haven't spoken to him for a long time."

Mourinho, who has been working as a television pundit and soccer show host since being sacked as Manchester United manager in December, also said he wanted to return to football management before the start of next season.

"In this short phase of my life, which I hope is only until June, I'm more concerned about what others would do than what I would do," he added.

Belgian international Eden Hazard has the talent and personality to succeed at Real Madrid if he chooses to leave Chelsea for the La Liga giants, his former manager Jose Mourinho has said.

Belgian international Eden Hazard has the talent and personality to succeed at Real Madrid if he chooses to leave Chelsea for the La Liga giants, his former manager Jose Mourinho has said. Hazard, who will become a free agent in June 2020, said last year it was his dream to play for 13-times European champions Real, and British media have since reported that talks with Chelsea over a contract extension have been put on hold. Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri said last month that Hazard was free to leave the Premier League club if the 28-year-old had his heart set on a move. "Does he have the talent to play for Real Madrid? He does," former Real boss Mourinho, who managed Hazard at Chelsea from 2013 to 2015, told sports streaming service DAZN Espana. "Does he have the personality to put on a 'super-heavy' shirt and play in front of the fans at the Bernabeu? Yes, he has the personality. "Regarding Eden's ambitions... be it playing for Chelsea his whole life or playing for a giant like Real Madrid, I can't say, because I haven't spoken to him for a long time." Mourinho, who has been working as a television pundit and soccer show host since being sacked as Manchester United manager in December, also said he wanted to return to football management before the start of next season. "In this short phase of my life, which I hope is only until June, I'm more concerned about what others would do than what I would do," he added.

Eden Hazard has the tools to succeed at Real Madrid, says Jose Mourinho

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard is convinced that he can form a great partnership with the club's new striker Gonzalo Higuain after playing two matches together.

Chelsea signed Higuain on loan from Juventus last month and the Argentina striker scored twice in last week's 5-0 thumping of the Premier League's bottom club Huddersfield Town.

Hazard, who also scored two goals in that game at Stamford Bridge, said he was already enjoying playing alongside the former Real Madrid and Napoli striker.

"I've only played two games with Higuain and I know we can do something great together, not only with him but also with the other strikers, the other winger," Hazard told The Times ahead of Sunday's league meeting with Manchester City.

"Chelsea is not about Higuain and Hazard, it is about 25 players. But Higuain is a fantastic striker."

Victory over Huddersfield followed league defeats by Arsenal and Bournemouth where midfielder Jorginho was man-marked to nullify the Italy international's influence.

"If one guy is marking him all the time, we need to adapt also. Jorginho is always trying to be free to take the ball to create something. He's a fantastic player," Hazard said.

Manager Maurizio Sarri has also faced questions about his insistence on playing N'Golo Kante on the right side of midfield instead of in his natural holding role, but Hazard believes the Frenchman has to adapt.

"N'Golo's a clever guy, one of the best in his position, maybe the best in the world. N'Golo now plays six months in the different position. He needs to adapt," Hazard said.

"When we win, everyone will say, 'yes, he plays in his (best) position, and if we lose everyone will say, 'no, he needs to go a bit behind'. Depends only on the result."

Hazard said Chelsea still need time to adapt to Sarri's possession-based style of play, which contrasts to the counter-attacking football of previous managers Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho.

"Sometimes we keep possession, and I understand the fans want us to go forward (more directly), but it is part of the football," Hazard said.

"We are still learning about his concept. We are doing well. I like this kind of football."

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard is convinced that he can form a great partnership with the club's new striker Gonzalo Higuain after playing two matches together. Chelsea signed Higuain on loan from Juventus last month and the Argentina striker scored twice in last week's 5-0 thumping of the Premier League's bottom club Huddersfield Town.

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard is convinced that he can form a great partnership with the club's new striker Gonzalo Higuain after playing two matches together. Chelsea signed Higuain on loan from Juventus last month and the Argentina striker scored twice in last week's 5-0 thumping of the Premier League's bottom club Huddersfield Town. Hazard, who also scored two goals in that game at Stamford Bridge, said he was already enjoying playing alongside the former Real Madrid and Napoli striker. "I've only played two games with Higuain and I know we can do something great together, not only with him but also with the other strikers, the other winger," Hazard told The Times ahead of Sunday's league meeting with Manchester City. "Chelsea is not about Higuain and Hazard, it is about 25 players. But Higuain is a fantastic striker." Victory over Huddersfield followed league defeats by Arsenal and Bournemouth where midfielder Jorginho was man-marked to nullify the Italy international's influence. "If one guy is marking him all the time, we need to adapt also. Jorginho is always trying to be free to take the ball to create something. He's a fantastic player," Hazard said. Manager Maurizio Sarri has also faced questions about his insistence on playing N'Golo Kante on the right side of midfield instead of in his natural holding role, but Hazard believes the Frenchman has to adapt. "N'Golo's a clever guy, one of the best in his position, maybe the best in the world. N'Golo now plays six months in the different position. He needs to adapt," Hazard said. "When we win, everyone will say, 'yes, he plays in his (best) position, and if we lose everyone will say, 'no, he needs to go a bit behind'. Depends only on the result." Hazard said Chelsea still need time to adapt to Sarri's possession-based style of play, which contrasts to the counter-attacking football of previous managers Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho. "Sometimes we keep possession, and I understand the fans want us to go forward (more directly), but it is part of the football," Hazard said. "We are still learning about his concept. We are doing well. I like this kind of football."

Chelsea's Eden Hazard relishing partnership with Gonzalo Higuain

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard described new signing Gonzalo Higuain as "unbelievable" in the box after the Argentina international scored twice in Saturday's 5-0 thrashing of the Premier League's bottom side Huddersfield Town.

Chelsea signed Higuain in January and bounced back from a disappointing 4-0 defeat at Bournemouth in midweek with a rampant performance against Town, with both Hazard and Higuain netting two goals each.

"We all needed that," Belgium international Hazard told Chelsea's TV channel. "We did well, so just happy with the result, the way we played today, especially after the game on Wednesday.

"It was hard but I think the manager wanted us to respond and we did."

Higuain worked under Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri at Napoli, scoring 38 times in their final season together at the Italian side in 2015-16.

Hazard said he had benefited from training with Higuain for the past 10 days and backed his new team mate to be a success in England.

"We've improved together," he said. "We've trained together now for 10 days. He's a great striker... he can hold the ball, he can play one touch, he's intelligent. In the box he's unbelievable, so he will score more goals, I think."

Next up for Chelsea is an away game against Manchester City, who host Arsenal in the league later on Sunday.

Hazard believes his team have a good chance of beating defending champions City for the second time this season.

Chelsea won the reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge 2-0 at the start of December.

"We need to be focused," Hazard added. "It's going to be a different game than two or three months ago. I think they will have the ball, because it's City, they have these sort of players to play together.

"But we will defend well and then we will score one goal or two."

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard described new signing Gonzalo Higuain as "unbelievable" in the box after the Argentina international scored twice in Saturday's 5-0 thrashing of the Premier League's bottom side Huddersfield Town.

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard described new signing Gonzalo Higuain as "unbelievable" in the box after the Argentina international scored twice in Saturday's 5-0 thrashing of the Premier League's bottom side Huddersfield Town. Chelsea signed Higuain in January and bounced back from a disappointing 4-0 defeat at Bournemouth in midweek with a rampant performance against Town, with both Hazard and Higuain netting two goals each. "We all needed that," Belgium international Hazard told Chelsea's TV channel. "We did well, so just happy with the result, the way we played today, especially after the game on Wednesday. "It was hard but I think the manager wanted us to respond and we did." Higuain worked under Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri at Napoli, scoring 38 times in their final season together at the Italian side in 2015-16. Hazard said he had benefited from training with Higuain for the past 10 days and backed his new team mate to be a success in England. "We've improved together," he said. "We've trained together now for 10 days. He's a great striker... he can hold the ball, he can play one touch, he's intelligent. In the box he's unbelievable, so he will score more goals, I think." Next up for Chelsea is an away game against Manchester City, who host Arsenal in the league later on Sunday. Hazard believes his team have a good chance of beating defending champions City for the second time this season. Chelsea won the reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge 2-0 at the start of December. "We need to be focused," Hazard added. "It's going to be a different game than two or three months ago. I think they will have the ball, because it's City, they have these sort of players to play together. "But we will defend well and then we will score one goal or two."

Chelsea's Eden Hazard backs new signing Higuain to succeed in England

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has urged the club to "solve the problem" of Eden Hazard's future, amid speculation that the Belgian winger will leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.

Hazard, who has one-and-a-half years remaining on his Chelsea deal, said he will not make a decision on his long-term future until the end of the campaign, which did nothing to stop the persistent rumours linking him to Real Madrid.

Asked what he thought Hazard would do, Sarri told a news conference on Friday: "I don't know. I speak to him only about the position on the pitch. But I think that it's time to decide.

"I think we have to solve the problem. If we want to plan the future, we have to solve this problem."

Hazard boasts a hand in 19 Premier League goals this season, more than any other player, and was again on the scoresheet with a brace in Chelsea's 2-1 win over Watford on Boxing Day.

While Hazard prefers to play on the wing, Sarri has used him in a central "false-nine" role during the last few matches and may do so again for Sunday's trip to Crystal Palace.

With strikers Olivier Giroud and Alvaro Morata struggling to score on a regular basis, the Italian manager expects Hazard to shoulder most of the goalscoring responsibility.

"He played four matches as false number nine, and he scored three goals and two assists," Sarri said.

"I am really very happy with him in this position, because he's very able to score, first of all, but he's very able to open spaces for the team mates, to come and play with the team mates.

"But in the future he can also play as a winger of course."

Sarri also ruled out Pedro for at least 10 days with a hamstring problem.

The Spanish forward picked up the injury in the first half at Vicarage Road and was replaced by Callum Hudson-Odoi, who has been nursing a hamstring problem of his own and was taken off in the 85th minute.

"We have two problems, the first more serious with Pedro," Sarri said. "A hamstring injury and I think that he will have to rest for about 10 days.

"The second problem was Odoi, it's not as serious but I don't think he will play in the next match."

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has urged the club to "solve the problem" of Eden Hazard's future, amid speculation that the Belgian winger will leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has urged the club to "solve the problem" of Eden Hazard's future, amid speculation that the Belgian winger will leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season. Hazard, who has one-and-a-half years remaining on his Chelsea deal, said he will not make a decision on his long-term future until the end of the campaign, which did nothing to stop the persistent rumours linking him to Real Madrid. Asked what he thought Hazard would do, Sarri told a news conference on Friday: "I don't know. I speak to him only about the position on the pitch. But I think that it's time to decide. "I think we have to solve the problem. If we want to plan the future, we have to solve this problem." Hazard boasts a hand in 19 Premier League goals this season, more than any other player, and was again on the scoresheet with a brace in Chelsea's 2-1 win over Watford on Boxing Day. While Hazard prefers to play on the wing, Sarri has used him in a central "false-nine" role during the last few matches and may do so again for Sunday's trip to Crystal Palace. With strikers Olivier Giroud and Alvaro Morata struggling to score on a regular basis, the Italian manager expects Hazard to shoulder most of the goalscoring responsibility. "He played four matches as false number nine, and he scored three goals and two assists," Sarri said. "I am really very happy with him in this position, because he's very able to score, first of all, but he's very able to open spaces for the team mates, to come and play with the team mates. "But in the future he can also play as a winger of course." Sarri also ruled out Pedro for at least 10 days with a hamstring problem. The Spanish forward picked up the injury in the first half at Vicarage Road and was replaced by Callum Hudson-Odoi, who has been nursing a hamstring problem of his own and was taken off in the 85th minute. "We have two problems, the first more serious with Pedro," Sarri said. "A hamstring injury and I think that he will have to rest for about 10 days. "The second problem was Odoi, it's not as serious but I don't think he will play in the next match."

Time to resolve Hazard's Chelsea future: Maurizio Sarri

Eden Hazard took his goal tally for Chelsea to triple figures, scoring twice in a 2-1 win at Watford on Wednesday as the Blues stayed fourth in the Premier League.

After a home loss to Leicester on Saturday, Chelsea bounced back with a well-deserved win at Vicarage Road, where they dominated possession, though Watford were not without their chances.

Chelsea remained 11 points behind league leaders Liverpool, while Watford slipped to ninth on 27 points.

The match, however, was overshadowed by the injury suffered by Watford defender Christian Kabasele, who crashed into a goalpost early in the game.

Despite appearing to suffer a rib injury in the collision, he tried to continue but ended up being carried out of the ground on a stretcher while being given oxygen.

Hazard said after hitting the century mark of goals his ambition was to become a Chelsea legend.

"A hundred and 101 goal with this amazing club is something I would never forget," he told Sky Sports.

"I want to score more goals for this club and then try to be a legend (like Frank) Lampard, (John) Terry, (Didier) Drogba."

It was not, however, a perfect performance by Hazard, who somehow failed to score from point-blank range in the 32nd minute when he could not connect with a sublime low cross from full back Cesar Azpilicueta.

But the Belgian made amends by opening the scoring in first half stoppage time when he rounded Watford 'keeper Ben Foster and slotted home after being put through with a pass by Mateo Kovacic.

Watford equalised moments before the break with a well-worked corner to Argentine midfielder Roberto Pereyra, whose superbly-timed volley from the edge of the box rocketed into the net for his sixth Premier League goal of season.

Chelsea were awarded a penalty early in the second half when Hazard was brought down by Foster, who received a yellow card.

Hazard converted from the spot for what proved to be the winner.

"I think we played a good match with a good level of determination and attention for 90 minutes," said Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri.

"It was dangerous for us when they conceded, but we reacted well and we didn't stop playing our football."

Watford boss Javi Gracia lamented his team's inability to make it three wins in a row.

"We knew it would be difficult for us but after going behind in the first half and to draw level, we were playing better in the second half," he said.

"We were dominating the game, had more possession and then conceded the goal. It was tough from there and difficult to keep pressing."

Eden Hazard took his goal tally for Chelsea to triple figures, scoring twice in a 2-1 win at Watford on Wednesday as the Blues stayed fourth in the Premier League.

Eden Hazard took his goal tally for Chelsea to triple figures, scoring twice in a 2-1 win at Watford on Wednesday as the Blues stayed fourth in the Premier League. After a home loss to Leicester on Saturday, Chelsea bounced back with a well-deserved win at Vicarage Road, where they dominated possession, though Watford were not without their chances. Chelsea remained 11 points behind league leaders Liverpool, while Watford slipped to ninth on 27 points. The match, however, was overshadowed by the injury suffered by Watford defender Christian Kabasele, who crashed into a goalpost early in the game. Despite appearing to suffer a rib injury in the collision, he tried to continue but ended up being carried out of the ground on a stretcher while being given oxygen. Hazard said after hitting the century mark of goals his ambition was to become a Chelsea legend. "A hundred and 101 goal with this amazing club is something I would never forget," he told Sky Sports. "I want to score more goals for this club and then try to be a legend (like Frank) Lampard, (John) Terry, (Didier) Drogba." It was not, however, a perfect performance by Hazard, who somehow failed to score from point-blank range in the 32nd minute when he could not connect with a sublime low cross from full back Cesar Azpilicueta. But the Belgian made amends by opening the scoring in first half stoppage time when he rounded Watford 'keeper Ben Foster and slotted home after being put through with a pass by Mateo Kovacic. Watford equalised moments before the break with a well-worked corner to Argentine midfielder Roberto Pereyra, whose superbly-timed volley from the edge of the box rocketed into the net for his sixth Premier League goal of season. Chelsea were awarded a penalty early in the second half when Hazard was brought down by Foster, who received a yellow card. Hazard converted from the spot for what proved to be the winner. "I think we played a good match with a good level of determination and attention for 90 minutes," said Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri. "It was dangerous for us when they conceded, but we reacted well and we didn't stop playing our football." Watford boss Javi Gracia lamented his team's inability to make it three wins in a row. "We knew it would be difficult for us but after going behind in the first half and to draw level, we were playing better in the second half," he said. "We were dominating the game, had more possession and then conceded the goal. It was tough from there and difficult to keep pressing."

Hazard brace gives Chelsea 2-1 win at Watford, Kabasele injured

Chelsea forward Eden Hazard will miss Thursday's Europa League game against Greek side PAOK Salonika due to a minor ankle injury, but should recover in time to face Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday, manager Maurizio Sarri said.

Hazard played the full 90 minutes of Chelsea's 3-1 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday and was limping towards the end, but Sarri allayed fears that the Belgium international was facing a long spell out injured.

"Hazard, of course, it is not a serious injury," the Italian told a news conference on Wednesday. "He will not be able to play tomorrow but I think he will be able to recover for the Premier League match."

Hazard has been used sparingly in Europe this season, with Sarri choosing to keep his top goalscorer fresh for the Premier League, but the manager said he was worried that the Belgian was still being overworked.

"I am worried because he had a back injury (earlier in the season) and now ankle, so he has lost a lot of training," Sarri said. "It's normal he is not at the top form of his physical condition. He has one week and a couple of matches.

"This week it is useful for him to have training. Of course he cannot play 10 matches in 30 days, so sometimes he has to rest."

Chelsea are top of Group L with 12 points from four matches and need one point from their two remaining games to secure qualification to the knockout stages as group winners.

The defeat by Tottenham was Chelsea's first loss of the season, and Sarri called on his players for a reaction, saying he wanted to see more grit from his team.

"On Saturday we played very badly, a match without determination," he said.

"We have to understand why we played against Spurs without the determination, it is not normal.

"I want to see a reaction tomorrow and on Sunday. I want to see we have learned from our mistakes."

Victor Moses, who can play in defence or on the wing, will also miss the match at Stamford Bridge because of a back problem.

Chelsea forward Eden Hazard will miss Thursday's Europa League game against Greek side PAOK Salonika due to a minor ankle injury, but should recover in time to face Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday, manager Maurizio Sarri said.

Chelsea forward Eden Hazard will miss Thursday's Europa League game against Greek side PAOK Salonika due to a minor ankle injury, but should recover in time to face Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday, manager Maurizio Sarri said. Hazard played the full 90 minutes of Chelsea's 3-1 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday and was limping towards the end, but Sarri allayed fears that the Belgium international was facing a long spell out injured. "Hazard, of course, it is not a serious injury," the Italian told a news conference on Wednesday. "He will not be able to play tomorrow but I think he will be able to recover for the Premier League match." Hazard has been used sparingly in Europe this season, with Sarri choosing to keep his top goalscorer fresh for the Premier League, but the manager said he was worried that the Belgian was still being overworked. "I am worried because he had a back injury (earlier in the season) and now ankle, so he has lost a lot of training," Sarri said. "It's normal he is not at the top form of his physical condition. He has one week and a couple of matches. "This week it is useful for him to have training. Of course he cannot play 10 matches in 30 days, so sometimes he has to rest." Chelsea are top of Group L with 12 points from four matches and need one point from their two remaining games to secure qualification to the knockout stages as group winners. The defeat by Tottenham was Chelsea's first loss of the season, and Sarri called on his players for a reaction, saying he wanted to see more grit from his team. "On Saturday we played very badly, a match without determination," he said. "We have to understand why we played against Spurs without the determination, it is not normal. "I want to see a reaction tomorrow and on Sunday. I want to see we have learned from our mistakes." Victor Moses, who can play in defence or on the wing, will also miss the match at Stamford Bridge because of a back problem.

Chelsea's Hazard out of Europa game with ankle knock

Mourinho's fight and Salah's strike summarise Premier League weekend action

Jose&nbsp;Mourinho believes former club Chelsea can win this season’s Premier League title if Eden Hazard maintains his form as the English game's best player.

Ahead of his return to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, the Manchester United manager pointed to the precedents for Chelsea being crowned champions in seasons when Hazard is at his best.

The Belgian led Chelsea to the title under Mourinho in 2014-15 and with Antonio Conte in charge in 2016-17.

Hazard has started this season in similar form with eight goals in 10 appearances in an unbeaten start for new boss Maurizio Sarri to sit joint top of the Premier League alongside Manchester City and Liverpool - seven points clear of Mourinho's United.

"Very good results, top of the league and, of course, lots of good players but history says that when Eden Hazard is the best player of the Premier League, Chelsea is the champion," said Mourinho on Friday.

"It happened with me and Antonio, and this season, it is still the beginning of course, but he is the best player of the Premier League until now.

"Chelsea is top of the league because he is the kind of player who can make a huge difference."

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Hazard and Mourinho didn't end on the best of terms when the Portuguese was sacked from his second spell at Stamford Bridge in December 2015 with Chelsea languishing in 16th and Hazard having failed to score a Premier League goal all season to that point.

However, in a recent interview Hazard spoke of his respect for Mourinho and his desire to play for his former manager again.

Mourinho doesn't believe that will happen, but insists the two had a good relationship.

"I would love to have him in Manchester United but I don’t think Chelsea will sell him to Man United," added Mourinho.

"Chelsea is led by intelligent and experienced people in football and they would never sell Eden to Man United so there’s no point to comment.

"I think he is a nice kid. We had a good relation, we were champions together. He was for the first time the best player in the league with me so I think the feelings are good and when the feelings are good you say nice things, when feelings are not good you don’t say so much nice things."

Few nice things have been said about Mourinho this season, at least by former United players in the media who have led calls for him to be replaced.&nbsp;

Legendary former midfielder Paul Scholes has been most vocal in his criticism of Mourinho and his style of football imposed on the Reds.

A thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to beat Newcastle 3-2 two weeks ago provided an example of how exciting the current United team can be when unshackled. But Mourinho again staunchly defended his approach.

"That story of the attacking football I still don’t understand that story because for me you can only play attacking football when you have the ball," he added,

"I want the ball and you can only recover the ball if your opponent loses it or if you provoke a mistake in your opponent. For all that you need to defend.&nbsp;

"When you have the ball, you can play a different way and normally adapted to the qualities of your players. That (style) is what I want."

Jose Mourinho believes former club Chelsea can win this season’s Premier League title if Eden Hazard maintains his form as the English game's best player. Ahead of his return to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, the Manchester United manager pointed to the precedents for Chelsea being crowned champions in seasons when Hazard is at his best.

Jose Mourinho believes former club Chelsea can win this season’s Premier League title if Eden Hazard maintains his form as the English game's best player. Ahead of his return to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, the Manchester United manager pointed to the precedents for Chelsea being crowned champions in seasons when Hazard is at his best. The Belgian led Chelsea to the title under Mourinho in 2014-15 and with Antonio Conte in charge in 2016-17. Hazard has started this season in similar form with eight goals in 10 appearances in an unbeaten start for new boss Maurizio Sarri to sit joint top of the Premier League alongside Manchester City and Liverpool - seven points clear of Mourinho's United. "Very good results, top of the league and, of course, lots of good players but history says that when Eden Hazard is the best player of the Premier League, Chelsea is the champion," said Mourinho on Friday. "It happened with me and Antonio, and this season, it is still the beginning of course, but he is the best player of the Premier League until now. "Chelsea is top of the league because he is the kind of player who can make a huge difference." × Hazard and Mourinho didn't end on the best of terms when the Portuguese was sacked from his second spell at Stamford Bridge in December 2015 with Chelsea languishing in 16th and Hazard having failed to score a Premier League goal all season to that point. However, in a recent interview Hazard spoke of his respect for Mourinho and his desire to play for his former manager again. Mourinho doesn't believe that will happen, but insists the two had a good relationship. "I would love to have him in Manchester United but I don’t think Chelsea will sell him to Man United," added Mourinho. "Chelsea is led by intelligent and experienced people in football and they would never sell Eden to Man United so there’s no point to comment. "I think he is a nice kid. We had a good relation, we were champions together. He was for the first time the best player in the league with me so I think the feelings are good and when the feelings are good you say nice things, when feelings are not good you don’t say so much nice things." Few nice things have been said about Mourinho this season, at least by former United players in the media who have led calls for him to be replaced. Legendary former midfielder Paul Scholes has been most vocal in his criticism of Mourinho and his style of football imposed on the Reds. A thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to beat Newcastle 3-2 two weeks ago provided an example of how exciting the current United team can be when unshackled. But Mourinho again staunchly defended his approach. "That story of the attacking football I still don’t understand that story because for me you can only play attacking football when you have the ball," he added, "I want the ball and you can only recover the ball if your opponent loses it or if you provoke a mistake in your opponent. For all that you need to defend. "When you have the ball, you can play a different way and normally adapted to the qualities of your players. That (style) is what I want."

Chelsea win the league when Eden Hazard is the best player, says Jose Mourinho

Chelsea's star footballer Eden Hazard said that "Real Madrid is the best club in the world. It is my dream since I was a kid".

Hazard, whose deal expires in 2020, has long been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/belgium-forward-eden-hazard-mulls-over-leaving-chelsea-151852">linked with a move to European champions Real Madrid</a> after Cristiano Ronaldo's departure from the Spanish side to Juventus.

"I spoke after the World Cup and I said that I think it is time to change because I played a great World Cup," Hazard told the British media after scoring in Sunday's 3-0 victory at Southampton.

"I am really in the game, I am playing good football at the moment.

"Real Madrid is the best club in the world. I don't want to lie today. It is my dream since I was a kid. I was dreaming about this club.

"We will see. I don't want to talk about this every day. I don't have time but we will talk about my future soon."

Previously, he said, "I can decide if I want to stay or go, but Chelsea will make the final decision. For my career, certainly after this World Cup, I'm at a moment where I might change. I will go on holiday and ask myself the right questions."

"I think Real Madrid is everyone's dream. Zidane or no Zidane, the white shirt is special," spoke of his admiration for the Spanish giants in an interview.

Hazard has been instrumental in Chelsea's unbeaten start under Maurizio Sarri, scoring eight goals in all competitions, as the Blues sit joint top of the Premier League alongside Manchester City and Liverpool.

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri recently&nbsp;confirmed that his star player <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-coach-maurizio-sarri-confirms-eden-hazard-not-for-sale-161418">Eden Hazard is not for sale</a>.

"We cannot sell such an important player without the possibility of buying another player at the same level, so I hope Eden will stay for this season," said Sarri.

Chelsea's star footballer Eden Hazard said that "Real Madrid is the best club in the world. It is my dream since I was a kid". Hazard, whose deal expires in 2020, has long been linked with a move to European champions Real Madrid after Cristiano Ronaldo's departure from the Spanish side to Juventus.

Chelsea's star footballer Eden Hazard said that "Real Madrid is the best club in the world. It is my dream since I was a kid". Hazard, whose deal expires in 2020, has long been linked with a move to European champions Real Madrid after Cristiano Ronaldo's departure from the Spanish side to Juventus. "I spoke after the World Cup and I said that I think it is time to change because I played a great World Cup," Hazard told the British media after scoring in Sunday's 3-0 victory at Southampton. "I am really in the game, I am playing good football at the moment. "Real Madrid is the best club in the world. I don't want to lie today. It is my dream since I was a kid. I was dreaming about this club. "We will see. I don't want to talk about this every day. I don't have time but we will talk about my future soon." Previously, he said, "I can decide if I want to stay or go, but Chelsea will make the final decision. For my career, certainly after this World Cup, I'm at a moment where I might change. I will go on holiday and ask myself the right questions." "I think Real Madrid is everyone's dream. Zidane or no Zidane, the white shirt is special," spoke of his admiration for the Spanish giants in an interview. Hazard has been instrumental in Chelsea's unbeaten start under Maurizio Sarri, scoring eight goals in all competitions, as the Blues sit joint top of the Premier League alongside Manchester City and Liverpool. Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri recently confirmed that his star player Eden Hazard is not for sale. "We cannot sell such an important player without the possibility of buying another player at the same level, so I hope Eden will stay for this season," said Sarri.

Real Madrid is my childhood dream, says Chelsea's Eden Hazard

From Mourinho's troubles to Harry Kane's comeback, here are 5 things we learned in Premier League

Eden Hazard fully expects to be at Chelsea next season but says he is in no hurry to sign a new contract as he wants the club to prove their ambition by bringing in players capable of winning the Premier League.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old's current deal expires in 2020 and Chelsea have been keen to tie him to the club amid persistent speculation about a move to Spain.

Chelsea finished fifth in the league, and while they have the chance to end the season on a high with Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United, Hazard said the club must look to improve the squad for a title challenge.

"I'm waiting for new players next season. I want good players because I want to win the Premier League next season," Hazard told British media.

Belgium forward said that his next contract might be the last one he signs while he is in the prime of his career.

"That's why I' m taking my time. It's something big, so I need to think about a lot of things. But one thing is for sure: I'm happy here," he added.

"... I think the FA Cup final is not my last game for Chelsea. It's the last game of the season, that's it... "

 
&nbsp;

The 27-year-old's current deal expires in 2020 and Chelsea have been keen to tie him to the club amid persistent speculation about a move to Spain

Eden Hazard fully expects to be at Chelsea next season but says he is in no hurry to sign a new contract as he wants the club to prove their ambition by bringing in players capable of winning the Premier League. The 27-year-old's current deal expires in 2020 and Chelsea have been keen to tie him to the club amid persistent speculation about a move to Spain. Chelsea finished fifth in the league, and while they have the chance to end the season on a high with Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United, Hazard said the club must look to improve the squad for a title challenge. "I'm waiting for new players next season. I want good players because I want to win the Premier League next season," Hazard told British media. Belgium forward said that his next contract might be the last one he signs while he is in the prime of his career. "That's why I' m taking my time. It's something big, so I need to think about a lot of things. But one thing is for sure: I'm happy here," he added. "... I think the FA Cup final is not my last game for Chelsea. It's the last game of the season, that's it... "

Chelsea must show ambition with new signings: Eden Hazard

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