Eto’o on Reals Hazard: “He’s close to Messis level.”

Ex-Barcelona striker Samuel Eto’o has raved about Eden Hazard in the highest tones and sees Real Madrid’s newcomer almost on a par with Lionel Messi.

“He wasn’t appreciated enough, but now he’s with one of the best teams in the world and all eyes will be on him,” said Eto’o on Radio Marca.

The 38-year-old, who is now under contract with Qatar SC, stressed: “He is close to Messis level and I hope Hazard will play against Barcelona when he is not at 100 percent.”

Eto’o on Hazard: “He must win the Ballon d’Or.”

Last season, Hazard was one of Chelsea’s top performers, scoring 16 goals and 15 submissions in 37 Premier League matches.

For Eto’o, he is also a contender for the biggest individual award: “Hazard must win the Balloon d’Or,” concludes the centre forward.

Hazard recently transferred to Real Madrid for a transfer fee of 100 million euros and signed a contract with the Royal Family until 2024.