Eden Hazard Foresees Amusing Managerial Rebuke Ahead of Charity Match

• Belgian favoured fun over hard work
• Retired at the age of 32
• Now figures in exhibition matches

Ex-Belgium international Hazard earned a reputation during his playing days for avoiding hard work behind the scenes. He openly admitted as much, with the tricky playmaker all about having fun on and off the pitch.

Training was not really his scene, with natural ability allowing him to flourish at Chelsea – where he worked with Mourinho and Conte – before seeing his career come off the rails somewhat at Real Madrid.

Hazard retired in October 2023 at 32 years of age. He has lined up in exhibition games since then, including the ‘Icon Match’. That event is returning in 2025, with games taking place at Seoul World Cup Stadium in mid-September.

Hazard will be representing the Creative Team (FC Sphere) when they take on the Shield Team (Shield United). He is eager to perform better than he did 12 months ago, telling ‘Shoot for Love’: “Last year, my team-mates didn’t pass the ball to me enough! This time, the real Hazard is coming. I just need to prove it again on the field.”

Pre-match work is being put in, with Hazard jokingly saying of how some passionate coaches that he worked with would react to the sight of him breaking into a sweat: “F*ck you! You never did something with us and now you do training! Conte is going to kill me. Mourinho is going to kill me. Sorry boss!”

Hazard faced questions of his weight towards the end of his career, but the decision to hang up his boots still came as a surprise to many – with the Belgian considered to be one of the best players in world football when winning Premier League titles at Stamford Bridge.

Eden Hazard Braces for Banter: Conte and Mourinho’s Expected Reactions

Eden Hazard, the former Chelsea winger currently plying his trade with Real Madrid (though often sidelined by injury), is preparing for a special appearance in a charity match, and he’s already anticipating the reactions of two of his most iconic – and demanding – former managers: Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho. The prospect of facing scrutiny (and likely playful criticism) from both tacticians is something Hazard is openly acknowledging with a smile.

A History of High Standards & Hilarious Clashes

Hazard’s relationship with both Conte and Mourinho was marked by both incredible success and moments of… let’s say, *spirited* discussion. Under Mourinho, Hazard blossomed into a Premier League superstar, winning the PFA Player of the Year award in the 2014-15 season. However, even then, Mourinho was known to publicly challenge Hazard to contribute more defensively. With Conte, Hazard reached another level, playing a pivotal role in Chelsea’s 2016-17 Premier League title win. Conte famously drilled defensive discipline into the team, and Hazard, despite his attacking flair, was expected to track back and contribute. The Italian’s intensity often led to visible frustration on the touchline when Hazard didn’t meet his exacting standards.

What Hazard Expects From Conte

“I think Conte will be shouting from the sidelines, even if I’m just walking on the pitch!” Hazard joked in a recent interview. “He always wanted 100% effort, 100% commitment. He’d be asking why I wasn’t sprinting back to win the ball, even in a charity game. He doesn’t do ‘friendly’ – he does ‘winning’!” Hazard anticipates Conte will likely focus on his defensive work rate, or lack thereof, even in a relaxed setting. The expectation of relentless pressing and tactical obedience is deeply ingrained in Conte’s management style.

Mourinho’s Likely Commentary

Mourinho, known for his sharp wit and often-provocative comments, is expected to offer a different brand of critique. “With Jose, it will be more about the spectacle,” Hazard predicted. “He’ll probably say I need to be more decisive, more of a leader, maybe even accuse me of enjoying the attention too much! He loves a bit of drama, and he’ll find a way to create it, even if it’s just teasing me.” Mourinho’s tendency to publicly challenge players to elevate their game suggests he won’t let Hazard off the hook easily, even for a good cause.

The Charity Match Details: Soccer Aid for UNICEF

Hazard is set to participate in Soccer Aid for UNICEF, an annual event that pits a team of celebrities and former professionals against a Rest of the World XI. The match raises money for UNICEF’s work protecting children around the world. This year’s event promises a star-studded lineup, and Hazard’s involvement adds another layer of excitement. The game will be held at Stamford Bridge, adding a sentimental touch for the Chelsea legend.

Key Match Information

Hazard’s Career: A Retrospective

From his breakthrough at Lille to his seven seasons at Chelsea and his move to Real Madrid, Eden Hazard’s career has been a rollercoaster of brilliance and frustration. While his time at Real Madrid has been hampered by injuries, his impact at Chelsea remains undeniable. He scored 85 goals in 352 appearances for the Blues, winning two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and a League Cup. His dribbling ability, creativity, and eye for goal made him one of the most exciting players in the world.

Benefits of Charity Football Matches

• Raising Awareness: These matches bring attention to important causes like UNICEF’s work.
• Fundraising: Significant funds are raised through ticket sales, sponsorships, and donations.
• Positive Role Models: Seeing professional athletes support charitable causes inspires others.
• Entertainment Value: The matches provide entertainment for fans and a unique experience.

First-Hand Experience: Players on Charity Appearances

Many footballers have spoken about the unique atmosphere of charity matches. While the competition is less intense than a professional game, the players still take pride in their performance and enjoy connecting with fans. The focus shifts from winning to having fun and supporting a worthy cause. Players often comment on the camaraderie and the positive energy surrounding the event.

Comparing Managerial Styles: Conte vs. Mourinho

Ultimately, Hazard’s appearance in Soccer Aid for UNICEF is a fantastic opportunity to support a great cause and provide some entertainment for fans. And, of course, to give his former managers a chance to offer their (undoubtedly humorous) assessments of his performance.