Roberto Martinez: Hazard is in a sad moment in football terms

Belgium coach Roberto Martinez has expressed his sympathy for Eden Hazard, whose career seems to be in freefall.

The 30-year-old winger has been beset by injuries during his time at Real Madrid and his national team coach has revealed the torment going on behind the scenes.

"He's in a sad moment, in football terms," Martinez told Cadena Cope's 'El Partidazo'.

"He is someone that has been a part of winning teams, but he just can't get any rhythm at the moment [because of the injuries].

"Everyone talks about him, but no one really knows the truth."

For Belgium - though they lost to France in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals in October - it has been a happy period, with the Red Devils qualifying for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar having topped their group, going unbeaten in the process.

"We needed that game [against France] to prepare ourselves for the World Cup," Martinez said.

"We've grown as a team."

Martinez on the Barcelona links

Martinez - a Catalan - has tried to keep his head on that job with Belgium, but admitted he has heard of the speculation around a possible job with Barcelona.

"There was never an offer," he stated.

"In recent years I have heard the rumours, but I have been focused on Belgium."

Martinez also voiced his praise for Luis Enrique, who he feels has embedded "a clear style" with the Spanish national team.

A World Cup match-up next winter between these two managers and their teams would be a mouth-watering prospect.

Adblock test (Why?)