'I have no crystal ball' - Conte can't guarantee Hazard stay

Nizaar Kinsella

'I have no crystal ball' - Conte can't guarantee Hazard stay image

Antonio Conte insists Eden Hazard is not looking to leave Chelsea, but admits he cannot make any guarantee with Real Madrid interested in a big money move for him. 

'Arsenal will sign Mbappe'

Hazard has been in brilliant form this season and he has been directly involved in 20 goals in 31 league games for Chelsea, who sit top of the Premier League table. 

Chelsea prepare for a difficult test away to Everton this weekend with Tottenham only four points behind in second. Conte says Hazard is likely to stay but couldn't officially rule out a summer departure from Stamford Bridge.

“I think that it's impossible for me to take this responsibility, but not only for Eden but for every single player," Conte told reporters at a news conference. "In this situation, it's the club who have the final decision.

Eden Hazard and Antonio Conte

"I can say my opinion about this situation, but I repeat: the club has the final word about this situation. I think that everything is possible, everything is possible in football. But not only for Eden, but for every single player. 

"You must understand that there are different wills to compare, and then to take the decision. I think Eden is very happy to stay with us and work with us. I think his family is very happy to stay here and play for this team, for this club.

Conte hints at Serie A return

"The fans love him and I think there are a lot of positive things that bring him to stay here and to try to reach the best with this club. Don't forget, the target of this club is to try to win in every competition we play in.

"I don't think that this idea [to sell Hazard] is in the mind of the club. I think we have to improve the team, to reinforce the team. But you know that, in football, there is also the will of the player.

"But I think, also Eden is very happy to stay in Chelsea, to stay with us and work with us. Yes. I can tell this. But in the future? I haven't got a crystal ball, no."

Nizaar Kinsella

Nizaar Kinsella Photo

Nizaar Kinsella is a Chelsea correspondent with experience covering international football at the World Cup and European Championships. He is a trusted voice within the Chelsea community, attending almost every game and having spent many years doing so. Coverage on Goal.com has seen him invited onto CNN, BBC Radio 5 Live, TalkSport and BeINSports to comment on the turbulent world of the Stamford Bridge club. He previously worked for the Daily Mirror and BBC Radio Manchester, as well as a period working in the UK charity sector.