Rudiger hoping 'one of the best' Hazard can play against Chelsea

The Blues defender is hoping to face his former teammate in the upcoming Champions League semi-final clash.

Antonio Rudiger has labeled Eden Hazard as “one of the top players in the world” ahead of Chelsea’s meeting with Real Madrid.

Hazard has endured yet another injury-ravaged season at Real Madrid, being able to make only 15 appearances in all competitions in 2020-21.

The Belgium international hasn’t really been able to find his feet ever since his €100 million move from Stamford Bridge back in 2019, managing a mere four goal contributions during his time at the Spanish capital so far.

He returned from his latest injury setback in his side’s goalless draw against Real Betis in La Liga on Saturday – just in time for a reunion with his former team. Zinedine Zidane confirmed that the forward will be available for the Champions League semi-final first-leg.

And Rudiger is looking forward to seeing him on the pitch at the Alfredo Di Stefano on Tuesday.

“I had a good relationship with him here at Chelsea,” the defender told reporters, via Goal.

“I hope I can play, honestly. If you want to win, you have to play against the best and Hazard is one of the best. For me one of the top players in the world.”