Eden Hazard looked back to his old self in Belgium’s emphatic 6-1 win over Poland and fans are incredibly excited.
It’s been a tricky few years for Hazard who has seen his dream transfer to Real Madrid turn into a personal nightmare.
The former Chelsea man may have won two La Liga titles and the Champions League, but he’s played a minimal role in all three trophy wins due to injury.
He declared at last month’s Champions League parade that ‘next year will be his’ and it looks like he’s ready to make good on the promise.
Hazard started for captained Belgium in the Nations League on Wednesday evening and was a constant menace throughout.
Poland went ahead through Robert Lewandowski but Axel Witsel equalised just before halftime.
After the break, Hazard emerged with a point to prove and it felt like we’d hopped in a time machine.
Oozing with confidence, the 31-year-old drifted around the pitch as if he was back at Stamford Bridge. Willing to take a man on and always asking for the ball, it was the Hazard we all know and love.
Kevin De Bruyne put Belgium ahead just before the hour mark after being fed a lovely ball by, you guessed it, Hazard.
Roberto Martinez’s side ran riot in the final 20 minutes, with Leandro Trossard netting twice in addition to Leander Dendoncker and Lois Openda scoring their first international goals.
Hazard did have the chance to get on the scoresheet but put his effort wide from close range.
To get back to being the best, you need to be headstrong and that’s something the winger was in his post-match interview.
“I’ve always said it, I’m going to get back to the way I was by playing more games and minutes,” a defiant Hazard told RTL.
“I had chances, but unfortunately I missed them. Let’s see next time.”
Real’s failure to sign Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain and Gareth Bale’s departure means there could be a spot in the team for Hazard.
Los Blancos manager Carlo Ancelotti insisted the club record signing won’t be going anywhere this summer.
‘Don Carlo’ said in a press conference: “Eden Hazard will stay here at Real Madrid next season.
“Hazard’s plan is very clear, he wants to show his quality next season.”