During his time at Chelsea, Eden Hazard played with many amazing footballers. The Belgian star shared the field with legends and rising talents. But when he was asked about the most talented player he had seen, Hazard spoke warmly about his former teammate Juan Mata.
Eden Hazard remembers his talented Chelsea teammate
When Eden Hazard joined Chelsea in 2012 he stepped into a strong team full of stars. Players like Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard and John Terry had already made history at the club. The team had just won the Champions League and fans were excited to see what would happen next. One player who quickly caught Hazard’s attention was Juan Mata.
The Spanish midfielder had joined Chelsea one year earlier from Valencia. He was known for his smart passes and his beautiful left foot. Mata could create chances for teammates with ease. Fans loved watching him play because he always tried to make the game exciting.
In a recent interview Hazard spoke about the players who impressed him the most during his career. He explained that there were many talented footballers. Still he made sure to praise Mata for his skill and creativity.
Hazard said that when he arrived at Chelsea he saw Mata’s talent right away. He described the Spaniard’s left foot as magnificent. According to Hazard Mata could control the ball in tight spaces and deliver perfect passes to teammates.
The pair spent two seasons playing together in London. During that time they formed a strong partnership in attack. Mata often created chances while Hazard used his speed and dribbling to score goals.
Chelsea success with Eden Hazard and Juan Mata
The time when Eden Hazard and Juan Mata played together at Chelsea was full of exciting moments. One of the biggest highlights came in the 2012 to 2013 season when the club won the Europa League.
Both players played an important role in that competition. Mata created many chances with his clever passing while Hazard used his skill to trouble defenders. Their teamwork helped Chelsea lift the trophy and celebrate another European success.
In total the two stars played 69 matches together for Chelsea. Fans enjoyed watching their connection on the pitch. Many people believed the pair could lead the club to even more trophies in the future.
However things changed in 2013 when Jose Mourinho returned as Chelsea manager. The coach used a different system and Mata began to play fewer games. Even though he was still loved by supporters his place in the starting team became uncertain.
In January 2014, Chelsea decided to sell Mata to another Premier league giants Manchester United for about 37 million pounds. Football transfers are unpredictable from decades and surprised many fans. Reason Mata had to leave after been one of the club’s most creative players and had already won several awards at Chelsea.
Throwback to prime MAZACAR 😮💨🔥
Chelsea 2012/13 season:
Juan Mata:
⚽ 18 goals
🎯 34 assists
Eden Hazard:
⚽ 13 goals
🎯 23 assists
Oscar:
⚽ 12 goals
🎯 12 assists pic.twitter.com/mWXEJiMjCY
— Liam Rosenior’s Chelsea (@ChelseaRosenior) October 22, 2024
Why fans still remember Mata
Even years later many supporters still talk about Juan Mata with great respect. During his time at Chelsea he scored 33 goals and gave 58 assists in 135 games. These numbers show how important he was to the team.
Mata was also known for his kindness and love for the club’s fans. He always worked hard and played with a smile. That attitude made him a favorite among supporters.
When Eden Hazard praised Mata recently it reminded fans how special the Spanish midfielder was. Hearing such kind words from a great player like Hazard shows how much talent Mata truly had.
Author’s Opinion
Today both players have moved on from Stamford Bridge pitch. Still their time together remains a happy memory for many fans. Their skill teamwork and passion helped create exciting moments that supporters will never forget.
As featured on ManUNews.com
As featured on Chelseanews.com
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