THREAD: So, I know that many Hazard fans have been annoyed with Benzema drifting into Hazard’s space and him lacking a “free role” etc. But honestly, I believe this could be a total non-issue by time. Hear me out:

First, let’s start mentioning how Hazard’s adaptability in his career has been crazy. We’ve seen many types of Hazard’s, including more direct and selfish Hazards, or even incredibly unselfish playmakers who don’t focus on G/A. We could see another Hazard with Madrid too.

Second, people tend to say he does best with a free role, but is that *really* true? Most say his peak was at the World Cup and that he’s best with Belgium, but look at his WC and other Belgium games (last 2 pics). Interestingly, his focus is at the left, like in Madrid (1st pic)

Now, Benzema drifting to his space could be solved by Hazard specialising in drifting central at the same time. Many people argue that Hazard’s 17/18 season could’ve been his best if his teammates did better, and he was often a false 9 there. This could happen with Madrid too.

Additionally, we can see something similar in Mbappé’s and Neymar’s partnership. Neymar is more of a playmaking 10 nowadays, but he defo also switches things up with Mbappé, and I see no reason as to why Hazard wouldn’t be able to do the same with Benzema.

Finally, let’s not forget how in 19/20’s start, Hazard was getting better and better, and was producing some masterclasses despite being far from 100%. If it weren’t for the PSG injury, I believe we’d have already seen an incredible Hazard that got fully adapted to Madrid.

End of thread. What do you think? Do you believe Benzema’s habits and Zidane’s system are still a massive problem, or do you now think that Hazard’s adaptability over time could solve it all? Let me know what you think!