Zidane not rushing Hazard back for Real Madrid
The French coach has no intention of forcing his new star into action for Los Blancos, especially with the Belgian manager watching on with interest.
The injuries that have plagued Zinedine Zidane's second spell at Real Madrid are showing some shoots of positive recovery. His star signing of the summer, Eden Hazard, is a key figure to getting the season firing on all cylinders but even as suggestions arise that he is getting closer to a return, Zidane is going to be taking no chances.
Hazard won't be rushed back
With Los Blancos desperate to get back to winning ways against Villarreal on Sunday, many would understand the temptation to get the Belgian back on the pitch at some point. But with the risk of further flare up, and the international break that follows a perfect chance to develop full fitness, it is unlikely that the winger will feature.
A further motivation for the Frenchman to hold back his new galáctico came from the mouth of Roberto Martinez, the Belgium national team manager.
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"Generally, he recovers well and quickly from injuries," Martinez said in an interview with Het Nieuwsblad. "If he plays at Villarreal we will have him [for Belgium]."
The thought of bringing Hazard back this weekend resulting in him heading away to play for his country in two qualifiers should make the decision clear for Zidane. Fans will have to be patient, and then can welcome back their new hero against Levante at the Bernabéu on 14 September, ahead of their opening Champions League game.