Ronaldo is greater than me, but in terms of pure football, he’s not better than me, says Eden Hazard
Former football sensation Eden Hazard, known for his stint at Real Madrid, has recently shared his perspective on the Messi-Ronaldo debate, asserting that he believes he was on par with Ronaldo in terms of pure footballing ability.
Hazard, who hung up his boots at the age of 32 in October 2023, expressed his views in an interview with L’Equipe, shedding light on his time at Real Madrid and the comparisons between Messi, Ronaldo, and himself.
Hazard’s journey with Real Madrid began in 2019 when he made the move from Chelsea. Endowed with the iconic No.7 shirt, previously worn by Ronaldo, expectations were high for Hazard. Unfortunately, injuries marred his time in Spain, limiting his impact on the field, resulting in seven goals and 12 assists during his tenure.
In the interview, Hazard acknowledged the undeniable greatness of Lionel Messi, labeling him as the best in history. He particularly highlighted Messi’s extraordinary ball control as a defining factor.
However, when it came to comparing himself with Ronaldo, Hazard boldly stated, “Individually, Messi is perhaps the only one. Cristiano is a bigger player than me, but, in terms of pure football, I honestly don’t think so. Neymar, maybe. After that, he’s no better than me.”
Despite the audacious claim, Hazard recognized Ronaldo’s monumental achievements during his time with Real Madrid. Ronaldo, now playing for Al-Nassr, left an indelible mark on the history of the Spanish club, amassing an impressive 450 goals in 438 matches and securing 15 trophies, including four Champions League trophies and two La Liga titles.
In a recent friendly, Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr triumphed over Inter Miami with a convincing 6-0 victory. However, this result has sparked interest in a potential rematch, with Inter Miami expressing a desire for another chance to face Ronaldo and his team.
As the football world eagerly follows the new chapters in the careers of Messi and Ronaldo, Hazard’s outspoken statements inject an intriguing twist into the ongoing discussions about the greatest players in football history.
Hazard’s time at Real Madrid, while plagued by injuries, was still marked by moments of brilliance. The No.7 shirt, previously worn by Ronaldo, carried its own weight, and Hazard aimed to fill the shoes of the club’s all-time leading goal-scorer. However, the injuries hampered his ability to consistently make the impact expected of him.
While reflecting on the Messi-Ronaldo debate, Hazard’s acknowledgment of Messi’s greatness stands out. Messi’s unparalleled skills and ball control have earned him the title of the best in history in Hazard’s eyes. The Argentine maestro continues to mesmerize football fans with his on-field wizardry, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
In contrast, Hazard’s comments on Ronaldo, who is now plying his trade in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, add a layer of controversy to the ongoing debate. Ronaldo’s illustrious career with Real Madrid is a testament to his goal-scoring prowess and ability to deliver in crucial moments. His departure from the Spanish giants marked the end of an era, and he continues to showcase his skills in new surroundings.
The recent 6-0 victory of Al-Nassr over Inter Miami in a friendly further solidified Ronaldo’s impact on the pitch. However, Inter Miami’s desire for a rematch suggests that the competitive spirit in football remains alive and well. A second chance against Ronaldo and his team would undoubtedly be a thrilling encounter for football enthusiasts.
As Messi and Ronaldo embark on new adventures in their respective careers, Hazard’s bold statements add spice to the ongoing discussions about the greatest football players. The debate surrounding individual brilliance versus team success, as well as the impact of injuries on a player’s legacy, continues to captivate fans around the world.
In conclusion, Hazard’s reflections on Messi, Ronaldo, and himself provide a unique perspective on the ongoing debate about football’s greatest players. While his claim of being on par with Ronaldo may raise eyebrows, it adds an extra layer of intrigue to the rich tapestry of football history. As the Messi-Ronaldo era transitions into a new phase, football enthusiasts eagerly await the unfolding chapters of these iconic players’ careers.
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