Belgian international Eden Hazard of Chelsea FC has revealed that his plans for the future beyond next summer have already been decided and that the Blues’ club management has been informed.
“I made my decision,” said Hazard after the Blues’ last Premier League match against Leicester City (0-0), adding, “I’m just waiting for the situation to clear up. I’ve already informed the club of my decision.”
However, with the Europa League final against city rivals Arsenal still to come, the official confirmation will be delayed: “This isn’t just about me. We’ve got one more final to play and then we’ll see. I would have liked to have clarified the situation sooner, but I couldn’t. That’s why I’m waiting just like the fans,” says Hazard.
When asked whether speculation about his future had influenced his performance on the pitch, the 28-year-old replied: “I was never distracted. When you’re standing on the field, you’re just trying to concentrate on the ball – nothing more. I always do everything I can to get the best out of the court. I don’t think about my situation or that of the club. I’m just trying to win games.”
Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri also heated up speculations about Hazard on Sunday. “Hazard was a great player at Chelsea. It’s time to respect his decision.” Asked about that decision, he rowed back a little: “I don’t know, I’m just the coach.”
For some time now, speculation about a possible farewell for the winger, whose contract with Chelsea expires in 2020, has been persistent. Spain’s record champions Real Madrid are the favourites for a commitment.
Hazard moved from Lille to London in the summer of 2012 and has since played 350 competitive games for Chelsea (108 goals, 91 assists). With the Blues, the Belgian won the Premier League twice (2015 and 2017).
