Ancelotti: I agree, Hazard is back

Posted Thursday, December 23, 2021 by Marca.com

Praised the Belgian for his efforts against Athletic

Ancelotti at San MamesEFE

Two goals inside the opening 10 minutes from Karim Benzema sent Real Madrid on their way to a 2-1 victory over Athletic Club on Wednesday, yet Carlo Ancelotti was also impressed with Eden Hazard's performance.

Hazard has found life in Madrid exceedingly difficult, barely finding his best form at any stage since leaving Chelsea, but he did contribute to the victory at San Mames.

"I agree, Hazard is back," Ancelotti explained in his post-match press conference when asked about the Belgian.

"Hazard has done well, he fought hard.

"The difference is to defend, they [Hazard and Vinicius] understand well what the team has to do in the defensive phase."

Real Madrid's preparation for the match was disrupted by the COVID-19 outbreak within the squad, yet Ancelotti refused to be too downcast, insisting that a number of his players had tested negative on Wednesday.

"Today we have had two or three that are already negative," he added.

"They haven't had symptoms and they will all be ready.

"I do not know the names, but two or three are already negative."

Real Madrid's victory allowed them to strengthen their position at the top of the LaLiga Santander table, with celebrations amongst the Los Blancos players abundantly clear.

"The victory means a lot to us," the coach continued.

"It was a complete performance, despite using a team that wasn't used to playing in recent times.

"Nacho, Hazard, Fede, Camavinga... they all played a great game and showed great commitment."