Chelsea legend Eden Hazard believes the London club must significantly improve their defensive game before seriously contemplating a Premier League title challenge.
Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, Chelsea have scored ten goals in their opening four matches but have only managed to secure seven points from a possible twelve. Victories over Fulham and Brighton have been offset by a defeat to Arsenal and a frustrating 2-2 draw with Hull City.
Notably, the Blues have already conceded nine goals in the league, highlighting a significant area for improvement.
Hazard: ‘They need to get better defensively’
In stark contrast, Arsenal have enjoyed a perfect start to the season, winning all four of their matches while conceding just one goal. Hazard emphasised that it was Arsenal's ability to grind out results even when not playing at their best that contributed to their title success last season.
During a discussion with Chelsea's former captain John Terry, Hazard was asked about the attacking trio of Cole Palmer, Morgan Rodgers, and Joao Pedro.
He made a comparison between the current crop of players and his own era at Chelsea, recalling his partnership with Willian:
‘They remind me a bit of us – of me, Willian, and other quality players.’
Terry responded:
‘That’s a big compliment. If they can reach that level, then all will be well.’
While Hazard noted that the current attackers have yet to reach the heights of his former teammates, he praised their potential:
‘Not just yet, but they’re young, and they have a lot to work on. I like the way they play.’
‘That’s why Arsenal won’
Terry pointed out Chelsea's draw with Hull City, saying that such matches are ones that top teams should be winning at home. Hazard linked this to the championship experience of Arsenal:
‘That’s why Arsenal won last year. Sometimes they played poorly towards the end but scored from a corner and won 1-0. I think that comes with experience.’
According to Hazard, the ability to control such matches develops over time:
‘The more experience you have, the more of these kinds of matches you can win.’
