Morientes - Eden Hazard at his best can match Messi

Hazard endured an injury-plagued debut campaign following a €100m transfer from Chelsea, managing just one goal and seven assists in 22 appearances across all competitions.

It marked a very underwhelming season for the Belgian and got him on the wrong side of critics. Taking on Real Madrid’s fabled No.7 jersey, the price tag, and his performances in England placed huge expectations on his shoulders.

But issues with his weight and ability to perform well regularly left him under the spotlight in Madrid.

Although Morientes believes a fully fit Hazard this season can be the equivalent of a new signing and backed the 29-year-old to rival Barcelona star Messi at his best.

The former Real Madrid striker also doesn’t believe Zinedine Zidane needs any new signings.

“The best Hazard, the best Rodrigo, the best Asensio or the best Vinicius accompanied by the responsibility and experience of Benzema is a good starting point,” said Morientes as quoted on Diario Sport.

“This year’s signing was already made last summer (Hazard) because he’s not detonated yet, but if he’s at his best level he’s alongside Messi. Players from the academy could be important in the medium or long-term, too.”