Far from showing a vain attitude and blaming operating rooms for his disastrous season -the first one- at Real Madrid, Eden Hazard did an exercise in humility rarely seen in the world of soccer, assuring that 2019/2020 had been “the worst season of his career”.
No injuries, no confinement, no high temperatures. The Belgian wanted nothing to put his poor performance before during a course (21 games, 3 assists and 1 goal) which came after paying more than 100 million euros and becoming the most expensive player in the club's history.
For this reason, he has a thorn in his chest and knows that, against Manchester City, in the Champions League, he has the last opportunity to end the year with a good taste in his mouth. Even, in case of getting the pass to the rooms, of lengthening the white life in Europe and, who knows, if they can round it off with their first Champions.
Slowly
But first, step by step. After staying out of the list against Leganés and still having shown that he is to play as he did in the game against Villarreal, Zidane does not want to take risks with him. Although it is true that he is fit to play, his performances also do not deserve entitlements beyond his excellent resume.
And, for the moment, that is what saves the ‘7’, his name. Real Madrid, also aware of all the obstacles he has had to go through (two serious injuries in November and February) is having patience with a player they see as capable of giving much to the team.
So, from now on, Hazard has dates on the calendar to prepare and get to the Manchester event (August 7) and show everyone – except Zidane who already knows – why he was worth more than a hundred. Hard work is what awaits you and one last sweet drink of the season if you can translate the days in Valdebebas into goals and assists at the Etihad Stadium.