When it comes to football’s modern greats, two names are often mentioned in the same breath: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, While others like Neymar, Have left a big mark but have fallen behind in the shade of the duo.
Their dominance over the past two decades has inspired countless players, with Kylical Mbappe and Erling Haaland Is generally expected to inherit their thrones. In spite of their target coring heroics for Real Madrid and Manchester CityBoth stars have met this season, partly because of the enormous pressure from leading two of the world’s largest clubs.
But when he was asked to name a player whose premiere was on par with football elite, Kevin de Bruyne Surprised many with their choice. The Belgian midfielder is overlooked the obvious challengers in Mbappe and Haaland and instead called a player whose career, while it was brilliant, ended in disappointment.
The player in question is none other than Eden Hazard. Hazard’s impact was known for its fascinating dribbling, fast speeds and skill to make crucial goals.
“Talented he is probably like the top five in the world” ✨ Kevin de Bruyne tells who he thinks is the most iconic Belgian player 🇧🇪
“For me it must be Eden,” said de Bruyne when he asked who he considered the greatest Belgian player in the Premier League history. “I think, talented, he is probably like top-five in the world behind Messi, Ronaldo, Neymar. Eden on his day was so, so good. His quality in one-on-one, his dribble, he never seemed to care, he just played football. I played with him since we were both 16 and he is a really nice guy too.
From little prostigy to the Premier League icon
Hazard’s journey to star began Francewhere he took Ligue 1 By storm with Little. After becoming the first non-French player to win the league Young player of the year Price, he followed it up by becoming the youngest recipient of ever Ligue 1 -Player of the Year assign. His dazzling performances caught the eye on ChelseaWho signed him in 2012.

The transition to Stamford Bridge marked the beginning of a golden era. In the next seven seasons, Hazard was heartbeat of Chelsea’s Attack, captivating fans with their mix of beat, creativity and style. He scored 85 goals and provided 54 assists in 245 Premier League -performanceshelps Blues to six major trophies, including Two Premier League titles And two UEFA Europa League tropops.
Career is traced by damage to Real Madrid
Despite his success in England, Hazard’s career took a downward turn after his long -awaited move to Real Madrid in 2019. When he arrived as the club’s most expensive signing, hopes were high to go to lead The whites to a new era. However, persistent injuries and fitness struggle prevented him from reaching the heights expected of him.

It was not possible to regain its best form, announced the Belgian retirement from professional football in October 2023Ended a career that promised so much but finally came under his potential.