In a revealing interview, Chelsea icon Eden Hazard has disclosed that he actively encouraged his former teammate Cesc Fabregas to consider a managerial return to Stamford Bridge. The Belgian superstar, now 35, shared details of their summer conversations, expressing a strong belief that Fabregas is poised to become one of the world's elite coaches.
Hazard's Personal Plea to Fabregas
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Hazard recounted how he directly appealed to Fabregas about taking the helm at Chelsea. 'I'll be honest, in the summer we talked a bit,' Hazard revealed. 'I told him he was one of the best midfielders in history and that he's destined to become one of the best coaches as well.'
Hazard emphasised that he explicitly stated to Fabregas that 'the time has come for him to return to Chelsea.' While Fabregas reportedly joked about the suggestion, Hazard remains convinced of his former colleague's suitability for the role, citing his deep football knowledge and passion for the game.
Fabregas's Managerial Credentials
The former Spain international, who won two Premier League titles during his playing days at Chelsea, has been building an impressive managerial reputation since taking charge of Italian side Como in 2024. Under his guidance, Como achieved a respectable 10th-place finish in Serie A last season and currently sit sixth in the table, just four points adrift of the coveted Champions League positions.
This steady progress has not gone unnoticed, with Fabregas being tentatively linked with the Chelsea managerial vacancy that arose following Enzo Maresca's departure on New Year's Day.
Hazard's Chelsea Dream
As a self-professed Chelsea fan, Hazard articulated his vision for the club's future. 'I'm a Chelsea fan, and I want the best for the club,' he stated. 'That's why I dream of seeing Cesc on their bench, while I'll be staying in the stands behind him, enjoying the show.'
This heartfelt endorsement underscores Hazard's belief that Fabregas possesses the tactical acumen and understanding of Chelsea's culture to succeed in one of football's most demanding managerial positions.
Alternative Perspectives on Chelsea's Appointment
Despite Hazard's advocacy, Chelsea ultimately appointed Liam Rosenior to replace Maresca. The former Strasbourg boss has made a promising start to his tenure, winning six of his first eight matches in charge. His only defeats came against Arsenal in both legs of the Carabao Cup semi-final, with Chelsea ultimately losing 4-2 on aggregate.
However, not everyone is convinced Rosenior was the optimal choice. Former Manchester United and England midfielder Paul Scholes has publicly suggested that Fabregas might have been a superior appointment. Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, Scholes remarked: 'Do you know what? I actually like what Cesc Fabregas is doing. I think he might have been a better choice for Chelsea than Liam Rosenior.'
Looking Ahead for Chelsea
As Chelsea prepare to return to Premier League action against bottom-placed Wolves this Saturday, Rosenior will be keen to maintain his positive start and justify the club's decision to appoint him over other candidates like Fabregas.
Meanwhile, Fabregas continues to enhance his managerial reputation at Como, potentially positioning himself for future opportunities at elite clubs. Whether Hazard's dream of seeing his former teammate in the Chelsea dugout will ever materialise remains uncertain, but the public endorsement from one of Chelsea's modern greats certainly adds intriguing speculation to the ongoing narrative surrounding the club's managerial direction.
