Real Madrid's pursuit of Eden Hazard was one of the biggest transfer sagas of the summer, with Chelsea appearing to have fended off interest in the Belgian. The popular belief as to why Los Blancos missed out on their target is their failure to match the Blues' high asking price, but another key factor could have had a role.
Speaking about the topic of Real Madrid's interest, the player's father gave a hint as to why the move never materialized. According to Thierry Hazard, Zinedine Zidane decision to leave the club could have been a crucial factor.
The French icon is an admirer of Eden, and vice versa, with the two publicly showering each other with praise in the past. However, after winning last season's Champions League, Zizou shocked the world and announced his decision to step down as manager at the Bernabeu.
"It could have been a different story if Zidane had continued as Real Madrid coach," Thierry Hazard told Belgian newspaper Hiet Niewuwsblad, as per Marca.
"But he had his reasons to leave."
The father did not reveal much else as to why the former Lille magician is not a Madridista. However, he added that a move to the Spanish capital could still happen in the near future.
"I can't say what happened," he added.
"Maybe Real Madrid have a policy to give chances to youngsters.
"Eden has another year on his contract next summer, and it's possible that he'll still end up at Real."
As for now, the Belgian superstar appears likely to remain at Stamford Bridge for at least another season. He has featured in both of Chelsea's opening two Premier League games, coming off the bench in both occasions.
