Hazard: Ronaldo Isn’t My Idol—Turns Out I Was a Milan Fan All Along
6 February 2026
Hazard on Ronaldo, Real Madrid, and a Childhood Milan Dream
The retired Belgian star Eden Hazard says his Real Madrid career was marred by a string of bad luck, insisting that wearing the Santiago Bernabéu shirt was a lifelong dream fulfilled, even as injuries repeatedly blocked his peak form.
Hazard arrived in 2019 amid huge excitement, brought in to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, and expectations were sky-high. Yet a persistent ankle problem soon overshadowed his stint, limiting playing time and preventing the dazzling displays Madrid supporters hoped to witness.
Memories, Mentorship, and Staying True to Himself
Hazard recalled his Chelsea days with nostalgia, reminding fans that he valued being himself on and off the pitch more than chasing a copy of any superstar. He stressed that Ronaldo is Ronaldo, but he is Hazard—he wanted to stay true to who he is.
During a conversation with coach Maurizio Sarri, he explained he never tried to imitate Ronaldo to improve. He preferred to be himself, to share meals with friends, and to enjoy a drink now and then; his goal remained simple: perform as Hazard.
Mourinho, Hazard says, was the best manager he worked with. His way of thinking and communicating ideas impressed him. In contrast, Sarri’s sessions could feel tedious, and Antonio Conte’s methods demanded endless repetition.
Hazard also noted he was never particularly close to Italy, despite offers, because his dream had always been the Premier League and Real Madrid. As a boy, he even supported Milan—a fact he jokes about with a smile.
Finally, he admitted that Moratti praised him, yet his heart always chased the Premier League and Real Madrid, and, truthfully, as a child he supported Milan. He signs off by saying that the path he chose still felt right, even if the road was bumpy.
Closing quip: If ambition burned as bright as his injuries, Hazard would still glow; Ronaldo may be a legend, but Hazard says the real trick is being true to yourself—Hazard, 100% edition. And yes, he confirms he was a Milan fan as a kid—the nostalgia, apparently, never expires.
