EDEN’S PROJECT
Is Kevin De Bruyne still performing at his usual high level? During Manchester City’s 3-1 victory over Brentford, Jamie Carragher, who had just calmed down from a match at the Emirates, believed so. He even went as far as to say that if De Bruyne played for Liverpool, they would win the league due to his dominance. Comparisons were drawn to other legendary players in the Premier League, such as Cantona, Zola, and Bergkamp. However, Carragher left out one name – another famous Belgian who may be even more talented than De Bruyne and is only five months older.
Eden Hazard, once a prominent player, was often overlooked, despite being one of the top performers in the 2010s. Chelsea acquired him from Lille in 2012 for a fee of £30m. He proved to be a key player in their two title victories, first under José Mourinho in 2014-15 and then under Antonio Conte in 2016-17. On some occasions, he seemed unstoppable, effortlessly maneuvering past defenders with his swift footwork and powerful shots on goal, rivaling the skills of De Bruyne. However, there were also challenges, such as injury troubles and public conflicts with coaches like Mourinho and Conte. Unlike other players, Hazard preferred to rely on his natural talent rather than extensive analysis or studying opponents. In his final game for Chelsea in 2019, he scored a penalty in the Europa League final before facing a decline in form when he joined Real Madrid, similar to the experience of Kaká, who also struggled to live up to his potential at the Bernabéu.
Last weekend, Hazard responded to criticism by admitting that most of it was true. He also mentioned showing up overweight and how this may be his last vacation now that he’s at Real Madrid. He explained that after seven years of playing in England without a Christmas break, he likes to let loose during his short vacations with barbecues and rosé wine. This sounds like a typical Friday evening for Football Daily.
Hazard continued to speak on behalf of the inner voice within himself, stating: “I enjoy socializing and indulging in food and drinks with my companions. Attempting to follow a strict diet is pointless, it does not yield results. If you intend to continue playing until your 40s, then that is fine. However, I knew that was not my path. I always keep some champagne in my refrigerator.” Hazard does not aspire to the post-football destinations of the wealthy: Saudi Arabia, Major League Soccer, or irritating locals by refusing to participate in lucrative exhibition matches. “Just let me be with my friends, we go home, play cards, and have a beer,” he exclaimed, while also taking a jab at his well-known teammate. “Cristiano [Ronaldo] may be a more renowned player than me, but when it comes to pure football skills, I honestly do not think he is superior.” Based on Hackney Marshes’ beer/burger measuring system, it is difficult to argue against this assessment of purity.
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“The quote for today is:”
“I attended an open-door training session but had to leave due to the large crowd and a clinic with children. Although I wanted to participate, I was still feeling uncomfortable and found it challenging to play. I understand that people were looking forward to seeing me. As for tomorrow, it remains uncertain as we will assess how I feel during training. I am feeling better than a few days ago and am eager to play, but it is still unclear if I will be able to. This comes after facing criticism from fans in Hong Kong for not showing up at Inter Miami’s friendly. However, there is a possibility that I may join the team for their next pre-season match against Vissel Kobe.”
FOOTBALL DAILY LETTERS
I have noticed that the 2026 World Cup final will take place in New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, including the expected and extravagant closing ceremony. The stadium is conveniently located only seven miles away from downtown Manhattan, where many celebrities reside in luxurious apartments. In case Diana Ross requires a penalty coach, I would like to offer my availability to travel from Philadelphia on weekdays and encourage her to start practicing as early as possible. – Justin Kavanagh
Can I confess to being a misguided supporter of West Ham, who are often criticized by TV pundits for our lack of gratitude and sense of entitlement when we express any reservations about Moyesausaurus? They warn us to be careful what we wish for. Even those of us who endure every painful minute know that, as the great man himself said, a club like West Ham cannot compete with teams like Newcastle and Aston Villa in terms of resources. However, losing 3-0 (and sixth place) to a depleted team like Manchester United is truly painful. Looking ahead, a two-year contract extension may give the Chosen One and Kevin ‘iPad’ Nolan the chance to burst our bubbles and show us that we were living in a dream, even reaching the heights of Super Sunday on Sky. Is it time to accept defeat and move on? – Brian Withington.
We are all aware that the expression “he really is” (mentioned in yesterday’s Football Daily letters) comes from the well-known Frank Sidebottom of Timperley. After thoroughly searching on YouTube for 30 minutes, the most similar result I could find was this. However, Frank’s fans will recognize it – Colin Sharples.
Regarding Memory Lane (yesterday’s Football Daily, complete email edition). It was pleasant to witness a traditional goal being firmly secured into the ground. Why is it now common for goals to not even be properly attached, resulting in the back of the goal lifting off the ground when a powerful shot is made? I eagerly anticipate the moment when a powerful strike (ideally from a Bournemouth player) causes the entire frame to topple over – Alan Mannings.
Please email letters to [email protected]. Congratulations to Brian Withington, the winner of today’s letter of the day. He will receive a copy of The Social One: why Jürgen Klopp was the perfect fit for Liverpool, published by Pitch Publishing. You can check out their selection of football books at their store.
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Source: theguardian.com
