Chelsea’s Eden Hazard has placed 19th in this year’s Ballon d’Or.
The Belgian lead Chelsea to another title last season, and despite suffering a broken ankle over the summer has returned to some of the best for of his career in recent months.
It’s a disappointing ranking for the attacker, who has really shone over the last 12 months. Missing out on Champions League football has clearly hurt his efforts to be considers amongst the world’s best.
Hazard has been linked with Real Madrid constantly over the years, and this low placing may push him closer to the exit if he feels he will never be able to be considered amongst the world’s best while playing at Chelsea.
Final ranking of Ballon d'Or France Football 2017 :
19th – EDEN HAZARD
Le classement en direct : https://t.co/VCaRs94Ncc #BallondOr pic.twitter.com/JEqfTTMhee
— Ballon d'Or (@ballondor) December 7, 2017
The full results are still being announced, with Cristiano Ronaldo expected to retain the award once again after a League and Champions League double triumph ahead of Lionel Messi. N’Golo Kante will also place among the top names.