Former Chelsea star Eden Hazard has made an unexpected recommendation for the next manager to take over at Stamford Bridge following Mauricio Pochettino’s departure.
Pochettino parted ways with Chelsea by mutual agreement last week after a single season at the helm, which saw the team secure a European spot with a sixth-place league finish.
- Man Utd complete first summer transfer as statement released
- Key Man Utd star skips FA Cup celebrations to put future in huge doubt
- Guardiola names the Man Utd star who ‘made the difference’ in FA Cup final
As Chelsea explores options for a new manager, Hazard has suggested a surprising candidate.
Hazard, who was a key player for Chelsea from 2012 to 2019, has endorsed his ex-colleague Cesc Fabregas for the managerial role, even though Fabregas has yet to manage a team permanently.
When asked if he would like to see ex-Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi – one contender to replace Pochettino – take the role, Hazard told talkSPORT: ‘Maybe. I have my friend also in Como. He can be the first manager.’
Fabregas has been with Como in Italy for the past two years, transitioning from a player to retirement in 2023.
After Moreno Longo’s dismissal last November, Fabregas served as the interim head coach for the first team, before Osian Roberts was appointed the following month, leading to Fabregas’ role as assistant.
Roberto De Zerbi is currently seen as the leading candidate for the Chelsea managerial position, with the former Brighton manager listed among a quartet of contenders to succeed Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge.
Earlier this month, Como secured their spot in Serie A, with Fabregas contributing to their success.
Despite his limited experience in the top role, Hazard, who shared the field with Fabregas for half a decade, believes the 37-year-old is prepared to ascend to the managerial position at Chelsea.
Reflecting on Pochettino’s exit, Hazard added: ‘I was a bit sad, to be fair. I think he did a great job. I know people want Chelsea to be in the top four but it’s just a season of transition.
‘He’s a great manager. I wish him good luck. Let’s see who’s going to be there in the future.’
While Eden Hazard may be keen on seeing Cesc Fabregas return to Stamford Bridge, it appears that Fabregas is not being considered for the managerial vacancy.
Chelsea has completed their selection process, narrowing it down to a four-man shortlist this Sunday, with Roberto De Zerbi among the candidates shortly after his departure from Brighton.
De Zerbi has become the front-runner for the position, yet Enzo Maresca, Kieran McKenna, and Thomas Frank remain in contention.
De Zerbi is highly regarded as meeting Chelsea’s criteria, but even though he has left Brighton, Chelsea would be required to compensate the Seagulls with about £5m if they decide to pursue the Italian coach.
