Eden Hazard Exclusive Interview - Football Insights on Stake

We recently caught up with Belgian football icon and Stake Ambassador Eden Hazard to talk all things 2026 Cup and beyond! Discover Eden's exclusive insights on Belgium's memorable run, the error that broke their quarter-final against Spain, Jeremy Doku's explosive potential, his pick to lift the trophy, the Kane vs Haaland debate, and what success looks like for Chelsea under Xabi Alonso.

What did you make of Belgium's World Cup campaign?

Not bad at all, right? I often saw that people didn't really believe in us, but I think we showed that you shouldn't underestimate Belgium. They gave us some really great moments. I was proud to see the fans across the whole country backing the team.

How much do you feel for Senne Lammens after his goalkeeping error led to the Spain winner?

Senne is a great goalkeeper, he really is. He's already proved that at club level and I'm sure he'll prove it with the Red Devils soon enough. People shouldn't be too hard on him. He had to come on in a quarter-final and replace Thibaut Courtois… the best goalkeeper in the world. That's tough on anyone, but I'm sure he'll bounce back and come out even stronger.

Jeremy Doku was a bright spark for Belgium against Spain, how big a season can he have during the 2026/27 campaign?

I really like Jeremy. Plus he plays in a similar position to me, you know? It's not exactly the same style, but people expect a lot from him too. He can make the difference with his acceleration. He's still developing and I think he could hit his prime very soon. If he can nail down his spot this season, he can be devastating.

Who is your favourite to win the World Cup and why?

You know, I've always said I had a soft spot for France when I was younger. I played there, I played with a lot of French players. Then again, I also played a lot in England, it's like my second home. I played and I live in Spain too… I should have played in Argentina, really! (Laughs). To be honest, now that Belgium are out, I just want to see the best team win, the team that plays the most beautiful football, and I'll be happy.

As an attacking player, who would you rather play with, Harry Kane or Erling Haaland, and why?

They're both exceptional strikers, a bit like Olivier Giroud or Didier Drogba. The kind of strikers I loved setting up with assists. Linking up with Harry Kane looks like it would be brilliant… But with Haaland, I'd have ended the season with 20 assists (laughs). It's not easy to choose, I really like both of them.

Which Chelsea player are you most looking forward to seeing play under Xabi Alonso?

You know my love for Cole Palmer and Moisés Caicedo. I love watching them play and I know they've got things to prove. I think with the new coach, we're going to see their true potential. I can't wait to see how it all turns out. The main thing is to let them express their talent and enjoy themselves, and everything will be fine.

Alejandro Garnacho's future at Chelsea looks uncertain, what have you made of his time at the club so far?

That's not really one for me to answer. He's already shown in the past that he's a good player. Playing for Chelsea is a privilege. So if he stays, I hope he can enjoy himself and, above all, get the Stamford Bridge crowd on their feet. Because at the end of the day, that's what matters most, playing for the fans.

Similarly to when you were at Chelsea, Enzo Fernandez is being linked with a big move to Real Madrid. He could stay and become a Chelsea legend or secure a dream move to Real Madrid… what would your advice be to him?

You know, when you play for Chelsea there are about 10 rumours a day… I know what I'm talking about. The main thing is that he feels good and, like I just said, playing for Chelsea is a huge privilege. I'm sure he's got good people around him and doesn't need my advice.

What does success look like for Chelsea under Xabi Alonso ahead of the upcoming season?

I really like Xabi Alonso. He has a very attack-minded vision of football and for me it's a pleasure to be able to play that way. For us attackers, that's what we want. Mind you, don't ask us to do too much defending either, everyone's got their role, right… Look at what he achieved with Bayer Leverkusen… I hope they give him time and that he manages to win a few trophies with Chelsea. If he pulls it off, people will even forget he's a Red (laughs).

What have you made of Real Madrid's summer transfer window?

Ah, Real Madrid, we all know they're capable of attracting the best players in the world. When you arrive at Real Madrid, you know you're playing at a certain level, you know? I really like the coach, that's no secret. If he manages things the way he knows how, I have full confidence in him. I can't wait to see how it all plays out and I hope they can go and win the title this season.