AZP: It was Hazard’s dream to join Real Madrid, but he didn’t leave earlier because of his deep love for Chelsea

In an exclusive interview with Arab media winwin, Azpilicueta talked about his old club Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, Hazard, Spain and other topics.

What do you think of Chelsea now?

"They are now the Club World Cup champions and have also won the UEFA Europa League. There is always a lot of pressure to play for Chelsea and that is true because their goals are always the highest. What I see is a very young team playing enjoyable football and gradually building up their quality. We will see them eventually win the season. What results they have achieved, they have returned to the Champions League, which is a familiar stage for Chelsea, and we will see how the team develops further. I still have many friends at Chelsea, and I often keep in touch with them and follow the games as much as possible to check the results. In short, I wish them all the best."

Have you received an invitation from Saudi Arabia?

"I haven't received it yet, but I have played against Riyadh Crescent in the Club World Cup in 2022. They are very strong, have many excellent players, and are a very cohesive team. I think the level of Saudi football is indeed improving."

On Atletico Madrid's career

"This is a wonderful experience. I came back from the Premier League. Even though I didn’t win any titles in Spain, my goal was always to win and win titles. I suffered some injuries during this period, but I am grateful to work with Simeone, he changed the mentality of the club, and the atmosphere, the enthusiasm and support of the fans are unforgettable, and I made many good friends there."

On why Hazard is here. Real Madrid failed

"It is not easy to analyze the reasons why Hazard failed to succeed in Real Madrid. It was Hazard's dream to join Real Madrid. He has been waiting for the right time because he loves Chelsea deeply, and he is also deeply loved by Chelsea. Although he could have left earlier, he felt that he should contribute more to the club. When the opportunity came, both sides An agreement was reached and Hazard moved to Real Madrid. However, things did not go as planned. This is football and part of life. Hazard was a good friend of mine and we are still in touch. As I said, this is all part of football and life."

Is Spain the favorite to win the World Cup next year?

"Why not? They have a lot of quality, they have been great over the last few years and they have won the European Cup and I have every confidence that they are a serious contender for the title."

On Yamal

"He is an extraordinary player considering his age and has been amazing when he breaks into professional football. He is outstanding in possession and in one-on-one situations and, despite being only 18 years old, has become a key player for the club and the country. An important player for the home team. He is a dangerous offensive player who can penetrate from left to right and influence the game. He's going to continue to grow over time and he's still young. I remember how nervous and scared I was when I made my debut as a 17-year-old, and at 16 he was already playing for the Barcelona first team, which is very rare in football. ”

You have won almost all the championships. Is there any specific goal you want to achieve?

"This is not a dream. If there is a chance, I will try to chase a certain goal this season. For example, we have a cup to play. Although it is difficult, as long as there is a chance to win, I will try to seize it. This is my idea. I will not be satisfied with the existing achievements and always desire more. However, in the football world, it is very difficult, because in the end there is only one winner, and I always strive to be that winner."

How do you feel after being eliminated by Morocco in the 2022 World Cup?

"This is football, we lost on penalties, that's what it is. We are a strong team and have achieved good results. But on that day, we failed to score and the opponent's defense was very solid and we could not break their defense. We failed to win in the game and ultimately lost in penalties. This is football, you are facing an opponent who tries to beat you. They succeeded and we did not."

What are your expectations for Tuchel coaching England?

"I also have great memories with Tuchel, we won the Champions League and Club World Cup together, everything I learned from him and his coaching team was great, and we spent many unforgettable moments together. I can only wish him all the best, and I know he decided to take on a new challenge to coach England, where the pressure is very high, but they have a group of excellent players and a strong league. I will always follow his coaching performance and how he responds to various situations."