Eden Hazard Reflects on an Underrated Teammate
Eden Hazard, a name synonymous with brilliance on the football pitch, has had the privilege of sharing the field with some of the world’s finest talents throughout his illustrious career. From his time at Chelsea to his stint at Real Madrid, and representing Belgium on the international stage, Hazard’s journey has been marked by remarkable achievements and memorable moments. Now, at 35 years old and retired since 2023, he casts his mind back to those days, singling out one international teammate as his most underrated ally: Mousa Dembélé.
A Career Marked by High Expectations
Hazard’s tenure at Real Madrid, while surrounded by stars like Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr., did not go as planned. The Belgian’s move from Chelsea was laden with expectations, potentially worth £150 million, but the reality was starkly different. Over three seasons, Hazard made only 76 appearances, scoring a mere seven goals. Nonetheless, he did secure two La Liga titles and a Champions League trophy during his time in Spain, albeit not the prolific career many anticipated.
While Hazard enjoyed a glittering club career, he also participated in a golden era for Belgian football, playing alongside luminaries such as Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku. However, it is Dembélé, a player often overshadowed by his more glamorous peers, who has captured Hazard’s admiration.
The Unseen Genius of Mousa Dembélé
Hazard holds Dembélé in high regard, considering him one of the best midfielders of his generation, despite the lack of accolades that often accompany such a label. Dembélé, who played for Tottenham and Fulham, was not widely recognized as a world-class player, having won only a single league title with AZ Alkmaar. Yet, Hazard insists that those who watched him play in the Premier League understood his true quality.
Hazard emphasized that Dembélé’s contributions often went unnoticed because he was not a prolific goal-scorer. His skill set, however, was exceptional. Hazard recalled, “People didn’t talk about him much because he didn’t score goals, but the fans in the Premier League know he was a top, top player.” This sentiment echoes the views of many who appreciate the subtleties of football beyond just statistics.
A Legacy Recognized by Peers
The respect for Dembélé extends beyond Hazard. Former Fulham manager Martin Jol described him as “probably the best player on the ball I’ve ever seen,” highlighting the profound impact Dembélé made during his career. Such praise from a respected figure in football underscores the caliber of player he was, often excelling in the art of ball control and distribution while being relegated to the sidelines in discussions of elite midfielders.
Hazard’s memories of Dembélé and his playing style reflect a broader conversation about how talent is measured in football. The narrative often skews towards goal-scoring prowess, leaving behind players who excel in other crucial aspects of the game. Dembélé’s ability to dictate play and shield the ball was pivotal, yet it remains largely uncelebrated in the annals of football history.
Reflections on a Career
As Hazard embarks on a new chapter in life, focusing on family and reflecting on his career—he jokingly describes himself as “more of a taxi driver” now—he cherishes the memories made alongside players like Dembélé. He recalls moments of levity, such as the time he misplaced his passport, which resulted in missing training under the watchful eye of José Mourinho. These anecdotes not only humanize the superstar but also illustrate the pressures and challenges faced by professional athletes.
In remembering his time with Dembélé, Hazard shines a light on the importance of recognizing all contributors to a team’s success, not just the headline-makers. As football continues to evolve, the legacy of players like Mousa Dembélé serves as a reminder that greatness can often be found in the shadows, waiting to be acknowledged.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research