Deserved 'Hazard'! Premier League Icon Eden Hazard Inducted Into Hall Of Fame
In a move celebrated by fans and pundits alike, Eden Hazard has been officially inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame. The announcement marks the enshrinement of one of the league's most exciting and impactful players of the past decade. Hazard joins a prestigious list of footballing legends, solidifying his place among the pantheon of Premier League greats.
The Belgian winger's stellar career in the Premier League spanned seven seasons with Chelsea, from 2012 to 2019. During this time, he captivated audiences with his mesmerizing dribbling, exceptional vision, and remarkable ability to create and score goals. Hazard made 245 Premier League appearances, netting 85 goals and providing 54 assists. His contributions were pivotal in Chelsea's success, leading them to two Premier League titles in 2014-15 and 2016-17, as well as two Europa League titles, an FA Cup, and a League Cup.
Hazard's individual accolades are a testament to his brilliance. He was named the PFA Players' Player of the Year in 2014-15 and the PFA Young Player of the Year in 2013-14. He also earned a spot in the PFA Team of the Year on four occasions. In his final Premier League season, 2018-19, Hazard achieved the rare feat of recording 15 or more goals and assists, joining a select group of players to have accomplished this in a single season. Liverpool's Mohamed Salah has since matched this achievement. Furthermore, Hazard's incredible dribbling ability is highlighted by the 180 completed dribbles he recorded in the 2014-15 season, a figure surpassed by only one player since 2003-04. Between his first and last seasons in the Premier League, Hazard led the league in chances created (595) and completed dribbles (909).
Throughout his time at Stamford Bridge, Hazard was lauded by teammates, managers, and rivals alike. Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, who coached Hazard during his second spell at the club, described him as "one of the most amazing players" he has ever worked with. Cesc Fabregas praised Hazard's ability to play with his back to goal and his underrated final ball. Didier Drogba hailed Hazard as a Chelsea legend, acknowledging his numerous achievements and his leadership on the team. Frank Lampard recognized Hazard's potential from day one, noting his exceptional talent and the joy he brought to the club.
Hazard, upon receiving the honor, expressed his gratitude and pride. "I grew up playing football for fun, with my brothers in the back garden, but my dream was always to play at the highest level," he said. "It means a lot to join the Premier League Hall of Fame. I'm very proud to join this group of players, and I think we could make a good squad".
The Premier League will commemorate Hazard's induction with an engraved medallion and a £10,000 donation to a charity of his choosing. His inclusion in the Hall of Fame cements his legacy as one of the Premier League's most unforgettable talents, a player whose skill and flair brought joy to fans across the globe.
