That’s the verdict from former Blues goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, who believes the rest of the squad will step up their performances now their talisman has left for Spain.
The inevitable finally happened this week as Hazard completed his move to the Bernabeu, in a deal which could see Chelsea bank over £150million.
The Belgian star’s departure has left a big hole in the squad, and one they may not be able to fill in the summer market if the club’s transfer ban is upheld.
It means whoever is in charge of the team this season – with Frank Lampard the favourite to replace Maurizio Sarri, who is reportedly set to take over at Juventus – will have to make do with the players already at their disposal.
Eden Hazard scored 21 goals and provided 17 assists for Chelsea this season.
His 16 goals and 15 assists in the Premier League meant he was directly involved in almost half his side’s league goals.
However, even without Hazard, Schwarzer insists the current Chelsea squad is capable of qualifying for Champions League football again next term.
“It goes without saying how important Eden Hazard has been for the team over the last couple of years,” the Australian told the Weekend Sportsday on talkSPORT 2.
“But I just know that sometimes a player of that magnitude, a player of that importance, a player who needs to be on the ball so often, can sometimes be such a focal point that it takes responsibility away from other players.
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Eden Hazard joins Real Madrid and is officially announced at the Bernabéu