In January 2018, Oliver Giroud saw Eden Hazard for the first time in training and gasped at the raw talent and attributes of the winger. His first-hand witnessing of the of the Belgium international led to him saying “f**k.
The glowing praise of Hazard has become a regular act these days with the former Lille star proving why he is regarded the most important player in the Premier League. With several stars on show in the England top flight and particularly in Arsenal, Giroud has had the chance to play with or against some of the most talented players in his era but seeing Hazard felt different.
It was in a time when the Blues struggled to find wins and quite admittedly were below the required standards set by the traditional top sides. So undoubtedly, Hazard was not even in his best form but the flashes of brilliance in training was enough to woo new teammate Giroud.
“When I discover Eden Hazard in training for my first session at Chelsea. I told myself: “F**k, it’s hard to get the ball off him”.
Sometimes, there’s two or three players around him and he still manages to get out in tight spaces. He’s a magician, he’s impressive. Now, I’ve started to know him and I don’t find myself near him. It’s better for him and for me.”
Olivier Giroud, Metro
