Hazard requests a position change
Eden Hazard has asked Carlo Ancelotti to play him in a more central position next season. A player at this stage of their career with Hazard’s level of creativity, vision and football IQ must be played centrally to maximize their strengths. Five to six years ago, it was normal for him to play on the left wing because he was more mobile and nimble. Now, due to age and injuries, Hazard is more cautious of his actions on the pitch. It’ll be a good idea to play him centrally. Whether it be as a false 9 or a number 10.
Another example of a former winger who now plays centrally is Neymar. The Brazilian head coach Tite recently said, “If a coach plays Neymar Jr on the wings, I will say he has no idea of the player. It greatly restricts the creative ability of a player with such high qualities. Neymar loves playing on the axis.”
As wingers grow older, they lose flair and mobility but their experience and intelligence increase. The entire fanbase is eager to see Hazard next season as we’ve been promised from Ancelotti, Roberto Martinez and and the man himself that he’ll be better.
Raphael Leao bid reportedly prepared
According to former Sky Sports journalist Alvaro Montero, Real Madrid have been monitoring Raphael Leao’s situation and are set to put in a bid. The Portugeuse won Seria A MVP for the 2021/22 season as he led Milan to their first title in eleven (11) years.
AC Milan’s chairman, Paolo Scaroni recently said, “”Leao is without doubt a precious gem but Milan has shown itself able to replace the seemingly irreplaceable.” Those comments left pessimism in the Milan fanbase and optimism in other fanbases who rate the player highly.
Xavi Simons interest
According to L’Equipe, Real Madrid asked about Xavi Simons when he was leaving PSG. The contacts were brief, but Real planned for Simons to play with the reserve team. Xavi wanted consistent first team football which he couldn’t have been given at Real. He now plays in the Eredivisie with PSV where he’ll develop and progress his career in the right direction.
When will the players return?
Players who played games with their national team were given an extension to their holidays while most of the group return on July 8th.
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