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The past few weeks of the Premier League have been filled with drama, both on and off the field (goes without saying). The main focus of attention, being the ongoing war for the top four places (three, actually, with Manchester City a few miles ahead) and the surprise packed by Burnley and Watford.
Away from the field, there have been plenty of rumours that have been dominating the social media space regarding the leading talents in England who have their contracts expiring or those that look unsettled.
The one player in the midst of all the interest, is Eden Hazard. The question arose when the versatile Belgian admitted to his lifelong dream to play under his idol, Zinedine Zidane.
Three weeks later, we are left with the question: "Is it the perfect time for Hazard to leave?"
There are three strong reasons to believe it is!
Harshness of English football will soon catch up with Hazard
When we have a quick look at the statistics of most fouled players in the English Premier League, one name that never fails to surprise us is Eden Hazard.
The only soothing balm for the Blues' star has been his brief stint in Judo (a form of Japanese martial art) which the player himself has admitted to have played a massive role in his safe landings after bad tackles.
The question is, how much longer will it be, until the harshness of English football catches up with the quick-footed Belgian? Although this might not seem entirely plausible, it could play an important role and have its impact in case an offer is put on the table by the Spanish giants.
The Zidane connect
The most direct indicator is the player's dream of playing under his idol, Zinedine Zidane. This seems a stronger case when viewed with respect to his comments in the summer when asked about the transfer rumours regarding the Los Blancos.
Asked if he would be open to an offer from Real Madrid, the Belgian answered in the affirmative while adding "Everyone has their dreams."
Considering that Hazard will be turning 27 this January, and is at the prime of his career, it could be sooner than later.
Real Madrid and Barcelona's desperate need for a creative midfielder
The most pressing factor seems to be the dismal state of the Spanish giants who have dominated the football world with an unparalleled stature for more than half a decade. Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League defeat to Tottenham Hotspur and a couple of goalless draws that Barcelona have been subjected to, are only harsh reminders of this fact.
Although Barcelona are on top of the La Liga table, with a four-point lead over Valencia, the narrow margin speaks volumes. A quick look at the team roster shows a side that has experience in the form of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Andreas Iniesta, Javier Mascherano, Thomas Vermaelen, and Arda Turan.
These are players who have stepped up for the club and won the silverware. They are going to be tough to replace, which needs doing now, more than ever, as all of them are above the age of 30. Another matter of concern, is their lone striker Luis Suarez's lack of goals.
He has found the back of the net only five times this season and is placed 12th on the goal scorers list. Things were a lot rosier in the presence of Neymar when Suarez topped the goal chart once and was always among the top five at other times. This points at the lack of creativity in the side (especially with Messi stepping in to score the goals and Ousmane Dembele injured).
Shifting focus to the Los Blancos, a side that are struggling to live up to the reputation of 'European Champions'. They are placed fourth on the La Liga table and haven't managed to top the group in this year's champions league with only one match in hand. A quick look at the statistics shows -
Real Madrid's goals per season (After the first 13 La Liga matches)
2017-18 25 (worst season so far)
2016-17 36
2014-15 45
2013-14 35
2012-13 32
2011-12 42
These statistics clearly underline the dire need for more attacking and creative reinforcements. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema seemingly having a dismal season, and Gareth Bale spending more time unfit, than fit, it only seems right to look for other options and Hazard fits the bill perfectly.
CLOSING STATEMENT
To conclude, let's just hope for the best as the saying goes, 'Only the best deserve the best'. Hazard could very well be the face of Real Madrid in a couple of years. The opportunity has come knocking at Hazard's door at the right moment and let's hope he welcomes it with open arms. Until then, let's just sit back and enjoy watching the Belgian weave his magic in London.
