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Hazard joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012, winning two Premier League crowns, before he moved to Real Madrid in 2019.
Eden Hazard is widely considered one of the Premier League's greatest talents, but a crucial incident during his teenage years at Lille may have been pivotal in shaping his career.
The naturally gifted Belgian winger, known for his exceptional skill, particularly during his time at Chelsea, faced early challenges with his attitude.
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Hazard joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012, winning numerous titles, including two Premier League crowns, before moving to Real Madrid in 2019.
However, throughout his career, questions arose about his work ethic. This issue was even prevalent during his youth days at Lille.
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Eden Hazard’s nonchalant youth days at Lille
Former Lille defender Gregory Tafforeau recounted to The Sun in 2017 how Hazard's demeanour upon joining the senior squad at 16 caused friction.
Hazard's casual approach to training, including wearing socks rolled down, undone laces, and no shin pads, coupled with his seemingly nonchalant attitude, irritated senior players.
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Tafforeau described two specific incidents one was Hazard picking a fight with one of Lille’s star players Franck Beria.
"Soon afterwards I could hear voices being raised in the fitness room, and I heard a loud whack. I went in and saw Eden holding his cheek. Franck Beria, one of our star players, was there and his eyes were bloodshot with rage."
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It emerged that Hazard had mocked Beria in public. A similar incident occurred with defender Nicolas Plestan two days later, leaving Hazard in tears.
These "rude awakenings" proved to be a turning point. Tafforeau noted a distinct change in Hazard's attitude afterwards.
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Hazard made his Lille debut in 2007 at the age of 16, becoming the club's third-youngest debutant at the time (now fifth).
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