Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has claimed that Eden Hazard played better than Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo, reports Sky Sports.
This may be a bit premature, with the Belgian managing 14 goals and nine assists in the Premier League last season to Ronaldo’s 48 goals and 16 assists in La Liga. However, there is no doubt that the 24-year-old could one day match the former Manchester United man.
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The Blues man isn’t the only player could emulate the two-time Ballon d’Or winner or his rival, Barcelona ace Lionel Messi. Here are the five players who could manage it…
5) Eden Hazard, Chelsea
Already controlling games in a similar manner to the much lauded pair, but perhaps needs to improve his end product. If the winger was able to score more goals then he could start to be rated alongside Messi and Ronaldo.
4) Mario Gotze, Bayern Munich
Although the 23-year-old has seen his career stall amid difficulties getting regular first team football at the Allianz Arena, he still has the talent to come good. Having already picked up a World Cup and several Bundesliga championships he certainly knows how to win, but will need better personal stats than the nine goals and two assists in 32 league games during the last campaign.
3) Raheem Sterling, Manchester City
Even with the bad blood between the groups after his departure from Liverpool, the Anfield faithful have to admit that the 20-year-old is one of the best talents in Europe. Awarded the European Golden Boy trophy last season as the best Under 21 on the continent, his move to City could be just what is needed to help him fulfil his potential.
2) Neymar, Barcelona
Already playing alongside Messi at the Nou Camp, and captaining Brazil, the forward is already among the best players in the world. As such it is scary he is only 23-years-old and could improve even further.
1) Martin Odegaard, Real Madrid
Signed by Los Blancos last January after courting almost every top club in Europe, the 16-year-old is one of the most highly rated youngsters in Europe. Los Merengues will be hoping that they have another Ronaldo already on the books.