Eden Hazard can become the best player in Europe if he adopts the mentality of an elite goalscorer, according to new Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri.
Speaking in a news conference on Friday, Sarri did not reveal whether he intends to deploy Hazard in a more central role this season but he did agree that goals are the biggest area for improvement in the 27-year-old’s game.
“It depends on his position on the pitch,” Sarri said. “In the last five years, Cristiano [Ronaldo] has played like a striker. [Lionel] Messi like a striker, Eden sometimes like a winger.
“Eden can improve. We are talking about one of the most important players in Europe now but, in my opinion, he can improve more. He can be the first [in Europe]. It depends on him. The best for technical skill, the best for scoring, but I think it depends only on him. On his mind.”
Hazard is set to stay at Chelsea for another season after Real Madrid’s expected push to sign the winger failed to materialise following his impressive World Cup, and Sarri admitted the uncertainty surrounding the Belgian’s future was foremost in his thoughts when he was confirmed as Antonio Conte’s replacement in July.
“Of course, I was concerned about this problem,” Sarri said. “The first time I spoke to him, I was sure that he would stay. So I was concerned for 20 days, no more.”
Asked why he is not concerned about Madrid attempting to sign Hazard before the Spanish transfer window closes at the end of August, Sarri replied: “Chelsea are one of the most important clubs in Europe.
“I think one of the most important clubs in Europe cannot sell an important player without the possibility of buying a player on the same level.”
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