Rudi Garcia, the new national coach of Belgium, has a special bond with Eden Hazard. Their joint success at Lille, where they achieved a historic double (league title and cup) together in the 2010-2011 season, is an enduring milestone in the careers of both men.
Hazard was an absolute star player at the time, and Garcia still considers that period as the highlight of his career. Hazard continues to play a prominent role in Garcia’s plans.
The coach emphasizes how valuable it is to have someone like Hazard by his side, even now that he is no longer active as a player for the national team. “I’ve spoken a lot with Eden. He will also be a bit part of the adventure, the next 18 months until the World Cup,” Garcia said.
Although Hazard will not officially join the coaching staff, he can play an important supporting role. His knowledge of the team and his experience as a former captain of the Red Devils can be a valuable source of information. “Eden can help us, for example by sharing information. It is certainly interesting to have one of the best Belgian players of all time behind me,” said Garcia.
-Garcia sees Hazard as not only a former top player, but also a connector between the past and the future of the Red Devils. “The fact that he, like Thibaut Courtois, lives in Madrid could also be useful,” Garcia added with a smile.
With this special collaboration, Garcia hopes not only to leverage his connection with Belgian Football history, but also to add a new dimension to the current team. Hazard remains part of the Red Devils in his own way, with the aim of preparing the team for the 2026 World Cup.
