Wilfred Ndidi names Eden Hazard as toughest opponent of his career

By: Monsurah Olatunji

Nigeria international, Wilfred Ndidi, has named Chelsea’s former star, Eden Hazard, as the most difficult opponent he has ever faced in his career.

As a defensive midfielder, Ndidi’s primary job has often been to neutralize the opposition’s key creative players. So, when Leicester City faced Chelsea with Hazard at the peak of his powers, Ndidi knew it would be a particularly challenging task.

Hazard, known for his explosive dribbling, quick footwork, and creative playmaking, was one of the Premier League’s most dangerous attacking threats during his time at Stamford Bridge. The Belgian winger could operate in tight spaces, drifting in and out of defensive lines with ease, and was always a constant threat in front of goal.

Recalling those encounters with Hazard, Ndidi revealed just how difficult it was to keep the Belgian star in check, especially as a man-marker. In a recent appearance on the Premier League’s YouTube Uncut show, Ndidi confessed that the matchups against Hazard were among the toughest challenges he has ever faced.

“Eden Hazard. He’s so good. He was so strong and he was so sharp,” Ndidi said when asked who his toughest ever opponent was. “When you’re getting close to him, he can just change direction and then change direction. He’s so sharp; before you realize it, he’s gone.”

Hazard’s ability to deceive defenders with his quick changes of direction, combined with his pace and technical skill, made him nearly impossible to track. Ndidi, known for his own sharp tackling and defensive prowess, found it particularly challenging to contain Hazard, who was at his best during his prime years in the Premier League before moving to Real Madrid.

For Ndidi, facing Hazard during Chelsea’s dominant period in the Premier League remains a career-defining experience, solidifying the Belgian as the toughest opponent he has ever encountered.