Real Madrid: The three best starting XI’s that include Eden Hazard

STRIKER

The striker position has been nailed down at Real Madrid for a while now. Ever since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema has taken the mantle as Real Madrid’s main attacking threat, and he’s done a phenomenal job at that.

For the most part, ever since Benzema has turned into Real Madrid’s main goal threat, he’s operated as the sole-striker in a 4-3-3. While there have been some experiments in the past where a 4-4-2 was utilized, it’s clear that Benzema works best as a sole number 9.

Carlo Ancelotti could try positioning Real Madrid in a 4-4-2 this season, utilizing a strike partnership of Eden Hazard and Benzema. This season, it certainly is a possible lineup for the Italian manager, but he’ll have to play his cards right.

This formation could see Hazard thrive. Hazard’s role in this setup could be as a support striker for Benzema, creating space for the Frenchman and offering support outlets in the attacking third. The Belgian international would operate more centrally in this formation, but he would also be given license to roam freely.

Ideally, should Ancelotti opt for the 4-4-2, the starting lineup would be as follows:

Benzema       Hazard

Vinícius    Camavinga    Valverde     Vázquez

Mendy      Alaba              Militão        Carvajal

Courtois

The double-pivot of Eduardo Camavinga and Fede Valverde could be utilized in this formation, as well as the midfield duo of Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić. Ancelotti could also opt to use any of his crop of right-wingers at the club, but Lucas Vázquez is an ideal option given his defensive capability. As mentioned earlier, Benzema and Hazard will be the focal point of attack as the front-two.

All of the mentioned starting lineups in this article could see Hazard potentially thrive if he remains fit and motivated. It’s all up to Ancelotti on whether or not he feels the Belgian deserves a starting birth and these lineups are all reasonable ways that Hazard can be included in the starting eleven.