Eden Hazard’s playing days are behind him, yet he can’t seem to keep away from the limelight. The former Belgium playmaker had previously caused a stir after saying that Cristiano Ronaldo is not better than him in ‘pure football.’ This time, the former Chelsea man has surprised everyone by avoiding CR7 in his greatest players list. However, he did name Inter Miami ace Lionel Messi but in 3rd position, with an interesting name in 2nd place. Who are the other 2 players ahead of the 8-time Ballon d’Or winner? Let’s find out below.

In a podcast with former Chelsea teammate John Obi Mikel, Hazard gave his opinion on the best players ever. The Belgian revealed, “For me, the greatest is Zidane.” He added, “Then, you have like John Obi Mikel & Messi.” Although Mikel was a funny and light-hearted response from Hazard, the ranking of Zidane & Messi is quite interesting. Hazard, who was a Real Madrid supporter as a child, had previously said, “He(Zidane) is my idol.” Zidane’s presence as a manager was also a huge reason for the Belgian moving to Los Blancos. Hence, it is understandable why Hazard chose the French icon, considering Zidane’s influence on his career.

The respect is mutual as Zinedine Zidane once proclaimed Hazard as his 3rd favorite player in the world. Speaking of 3rd, Lionel Messi takes the 3rd spot in the list, presumably at the expense of CR7. Being a former Real Madrid star, Hazard avoiding Ronaldo is a bold move. Yet, Hazard did mention that it was a game of opinions and showcased his respect for Ronaldo by saying, “Ronaldo is the GOAT to score goals, to bring trophies to the team.” Yet, interestingly, it seems Hazard has contradicted his stance regarding the Argentine maestro.

After labeling Lionel Messi ‘greatest in history’, has Hazard made a U-turn?

Hazard has always been a Lionel Messi admirer. Back in 2018, the Belgian said, “Two G.O.A.T.s you say? No way. There is only one G.O.A.T: Him, Lionel Messi!” After all, Messi is probably the player who resembles Hazard’s style the most. Even recently, Hazard lauded the Inter Miami ace. When questioned about players superior to him, he said, “Individually, Messi is perhaps the only one. I enjoyed seeing Barcelona’s Messi and, to a lesser extent, the last Messi, but he is the greatest in history.”

Eden Hazard Is ‘As Talented as (Lionel) Messi,’ According to John Obi Mikel

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He further elucidated Messi’s qualities, “It is impossible to confront him and it is impossible to take the ball.”

Did Eden Hazard change his opinion? Or was it a case of forgetting about his idol Zidane back then? Have your say in the comments below.

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