Real Madrid: 5 burning questions heading into Champions League semifinal second leg

Is Eden Hazard ready to play a starring role?

Eden Hazard made his return from injury last weekend against Real Betis, and he looked promising off the bench vs. Los Verdiblancos. He then came off the bench once more at mid-week against Chelsea, though he had no tangible, statistical impact on the match in 24 minutes.

This past Saturday night, Hazard made his first start, totaling 72 minutes against Osasuna. Although the stats (one key pass, one foul drawn, no dribbles completed, no team goals while on the pitch) make it seem like Hazard had an underwhelming performance, Madridistas watching Hazard were likely more impressed with what they saw.

Hazard looked sharp, like against Betis. He forced a save from Sergio Herrera after doing well to break loose from the defense with his run off the ball within the penalty box. And his best play of the game was an outrageous backheel into Marco Asensio’s pass, setting up the winger in a dangerous position from a ball that seemed destined to roll harmlessly out of bounds in the middle of the pitch.

We know Hazard has the talent to change the complexion of the game. In rare glimpses, we have seen it this season, such as in wins over Huesca and Alaves. From the eye test, the sharpness and fitness seem to be there for Hazard’s true quality to shine in his old stomping grounds on Wednesday. But it’s anyone’s guess if the stars will align. Maybe it’s best not to pressure Hazard.