Belgium’s captain, Eden Hazard, is set to use the Nations League finals this week as a platform to overcome the challenges he faced in recent years, marked by a struggle for form due to persistent injuries. Despite a coveted move to Real Madrid, the 30-year-old attacker faced setbacks, with limited playing time owing to various complaints, primarily stemming from ankle surgery and muscle strains related to his 100-million euro transfer from Chelsea.

Despite nearly missing the European Championship earlier in the year, Hazard, a key figure in Belgium’s “golden generation,” managed to regain fitness and played a crucial role as both an impact substitute and a starting player. His appearances in the World Cup qualifiers in September prompted Belgium coach Roberto Martinez to assert that the skilled winger was returning to his peak form.

The Nations League finals present an opportune moment for Hazard to validate Martinez’s assessment. Coming off involvement in nearly all of Real Madrid’s LaLiga and Champions League matches, Hazard aims to reclaim his lost credentials over the frustrating two-year period. Belgium kicks off the tournament with a semi-final against neighboring France in Turin, joined by hosts Italy and Spain in the mini-tournament.

Success in the Nations League would significantly contribute to restoring Hazard’s reputation, given the scrutiny and pressure he has faced in Spain. Despite his jovial character, the inability to make a significant impact at Real Madrid has taken a toll on Hazard, according to some teammates. Thibaut Courtois, both at the club and national level, acknowledged Hazard’s challenges, stating that “Real Madrid waits for no one, not even Hazard.”

However, Martinez believes that Hazard has put those difficulties behind him, expressing confidence that Hazard is poised to make a substantial impact once again, especially after Belgium’s top-ranked team secured three wins in the previous month.