Eden Hazard sparks Chelsea return frenzy with social media post as new role beckons

Chelsea legend Eden Hazard could be set for a new role at the club in the coming weeks. The 33-year-old, who scored 110 goals in 352 appearances during his seven-year spell in west London, announced his retirement from football in October last year after his contract at Real Madrid was mutually terminated following the 2022/23 sseason.

The Belgian has since returned to Stamford Bridge, however, as he scored for World XI against England at this year’s Soccer Aid. Now, as Enzo Maresca’s squad prepares to fly to America for the club’s pre-season tour, Hazard looks set for another return to Chelsea. This time it’s as a tour guide as supporters have been given the chance to enter a competition, with the winners receiving a tour of Cobham training ground by Hazard himself.

“With new head coaches in charge of our men’s and women’s sides – Enzo Maresca and Sonia Bompastor respectively – the forthcoming campaign begins a new era at Stamford Bridge,” a statement on the official Chelsea website reads. “That new era includes our players wearing a home kit emblazoned with a bold design never seen before on a Blues shirt. It is a symbol of the club’s spirit and ambition – and they are two words that could also describe Hazard’s time at Chelsea.

“Over seven seasons, Eden cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in the club’s history. Now he is back to show you around at Cobham and introduce you to a couple more familiar Chelsea faces.” On Thursday Chelsea announced initial details on Instagram with the following caption: “Eden back in Blue. He’s got some something to show you. Hit the link on our Story to get your personalised tour of Cobham from the man himself.”

The post included a picture of Hazard, who donned the new 2024/25 home shirt. As you would expect, a number of supporters took to the comments to ask for the former No.10 to make his official Chelsea return. “Re sign him button,” one person commented, which has been liked more than 15,000 times. Another said: “Bring back our hope. Bring back our pride. Bring back our hazard.” A third added: “Resign him to replace Mudryk.” “Thought he was back,” one fan commented. Another said: “Bring him back.”

Of course, as Hazard has retired he will not be returning to Chelsea in a playing capacity, but the former Belgian international still has close links with the club, as shown by his latest new role as a one-off tour guide.