Eden Hazard admits frustration at lack of Real Madrid playing time

Eden Hazard has revealed his frustration over a lack of playing time at Real Madrid, insisting he feels ‘good’ but is not satisfied with his opportunities.

Hazard has struggled for fitness throughout his time at Real since a €100m transfer from Chelsea in 2019 – he has managed just seven goals in 70 appearances in more than three years in Madrid, compared to 21 goals in 52 games in his final season alone in London.

Having previously missed games through injury, the 31-year-old has not had the same issues so far in 2022/23 and has been included in every matchday squad. But he been a back-up option, starting just once – against Mallorca – and playing no more than an hour on either occasion.

Vinicius Junior has had a place on the left flank nailed down for more than a year, with Ancelotti also favouring Rodrygo and Federico Valverde ahead of Hazard this season.

Looking ahead to the World Cup, the Belgian now has concerns that he may not be in peak physical condition to perform at what could be his last tournament on the global stage.

“They have been difficult times because I want to play and I don't play,” he explained to Belgian media after facing Wales in the UEFA Nations League.

“I feel good at Real Madrid, I just play less. And when I play, I play well. It is a delicate situation because I want to play more. I know what I can do, I want to scratch the maximum number of minutes to get to the World Cup in good shape.”

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