Real Madrid forward Eden Hazard has ruled out a possible return to Chelsea this summer transfer window and says he is determined to ‘prove himself’ at Santiago Bernabeu.
The Belgium international enjoyed seven successful years at Stamford Bridge before leaving Chelsea to join Spanish giants Madrid in 2019.
Hazard won two Premier League titles, the UEFA Europa League and FA Cup at the club, while establishing himself as one of the best players in Europe.
However, It has been a different story for Hazard at Real Madrid, with his form and fitness taking a major hit. In two years at the club, he has scored only five goals.
Hazard was part of the team that lost to the blues in the Champions League semi-finals just last month – Thomas Tuchel’s side went on to beat Man City 1-0 in Saturday’s final and lift the trophy for a second time in their history.
After Real Madrid’s defeat, reports emerged that Hazard is interested in a return to Stamford Bridge to revive his career.
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While reacting to the transfer rumours, Hazard said: ‘I still have a three-year contract with Real Madrid, so going back to England is out of the question.
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‘Everyone knows that my first two years were not good, so first I want to prove myself at Real Madrid. I will do everything to do that.’
Hazard added: ‘I certainly don’t see myself leaving Madrid, given the contract situation. ‘I know myself and I know when I’m in shape. If that’s the case, I can give it my all for Real next season. That’s my plan.’
Following a difficult season, Hazard will hope to excel at this summer’s Euros, with Belgium one of the teams expected to go far in the tournament.
Asked whether he is ready for Euro 2021, Hazard said: ‘I’m fine, I train well and I can do it for another two weeks. I hope to be ready for the first match in Russia.
‘Practice matches will do me good, it’s always good to be here with the group. It will be a great tournament to prepare for. I hope everyone is fit, including me. It will do me good to play some games to start well.
‘I still have some pain in my thigh and I see what we are doing with the medical team and the manager. ‘I couldn’t play the last game with Real Madrid so I had a week off and now it’s time to see if I have to train alone first or no.’
