Ruud Gullit has warned Chelsea FC that they will have to demonstrate that they are capable of challenging for major trophies this season or risk losing Eden Hazard.
The playmaker’s situation at Stamford Bridge has been a constant source of uncertainty this summer following the Blues’ failure to secure a top-four finish last season.
Hazard has long been touted as a possible target for Real Madrid and his comments earlier this summer seemed to suggest that he was open to a move to the Bernabeu after five years at the club.
However, it appears that the 27-year-old is going to stay at Chelsea FC and fight for a regular spot in the first team under new manager Maurizio Sarri next season.
Hazard has two years left on his current contract at Chelsea FC and the Blues could be forced to sell him next summer rather than risk losing him on a free transfer in 2020.
Now, Chelsea FC legend Gullit has claimed that the Blues will have to demonstrate to Hazard that they will be competing with the top clubs next season if they want to keep hold of the talismanic 27-year-old.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Sport, Gullit said: “Players want to win trophies – you know your career is short.
“Hazard came to Chelsea to win things, not just to play well and earn a lot of money, and he still wants to win trophies – major ones – now.
“Chelsea have to create that opportunity for him – if they can’t, then you cannot blame him if he does want to leave. Can they do it this season? It is too early to tell.”