After playing like his head was elsewhere last season, Eden Hazard has returned to form in this campaign, showing Chelsea fans just how good he can be.
Dear Eden Hazard,
Last year, I wanted to quit you.
I was sick of your halfhearted appeals for admiration.
When you limped off the field against Leicester, I knew things had changed. You no longer pirouetted around the field like a deftly-footed panther while defenders backpedaled and attempted to hack you to the ground. You looked almost average. I began to investigate rumors from Spain with shameful optimism. Your shirt spent a lot of time in the laundry basket.
The rumors trailed off into their typical abyss-like destination and you stayed, setting your sights on what once was. I had my doubts. The newest (and hardest) of Stamford Bridge’s Italians assured everyone that you were still the Belgian wizard, and that he knew where you were hiding your wand.
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And, damn it, he was right. You’re something special and something special is happening. It’s hard not to smile when you’re in the room. You really do make the best pancakes, and look at those glutes.
You’re singing in the shower again; the footballing world is recognizing your vocal range. The steam that fogged the mirror has cooled and departed. I can wear your number around town without receiving dirty side-glancing looks.
Fear of your swaggering flare is back. Francis Coquelin would like his legs back. Darren Randolph has lost control of his arms. Everton’s defense still can’t find you. You can keep all the goals. They only ask that you spare their reputation.
Sadly, the English lot are not the only ones who are paying attention. I understand that there’s a final level of elite. A level we have yet to reach. The tall woman from Madrid is strutting down the street with her checkbook peeking out of her pocket. But, before you follow her, I ask that you consider the benefits of being the catalyst for upward movement.
NEXT: Eden Hazard: Top 10 Goals for Chelsea FC
Sincerely,
A Chelsea fan.