Ballon d’Or 2018: The top 5 Contenders from the Premier League

#1 Eden Hazard

Liverpool v Chelsea - Carabao Cup Third Round

When Maurizio Sarri took over at Chelsea, doubts were cast about how Eden Hazard would fit into his plans. Ronaldo’s departure from the Bernabeu gave rise to rumours that the Belgian was now on Real’s radar as a potential replacement for the Portuguese and there were valid reasons for all the talk.

Last season, Eden Hazard scored 17 goals in all competitions and registered 13 assists. In the Premier League, he scored 12 goals from 34 games. While Chelsea did not fare well in the League, Hazard picked up the FA Cup at the end of the season, scoring the winner against Manchester United. At the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Hazard scored 3 goals as Belgium finished third.

The arrival of Sarri had put his future under some doubt, but Hazard has hit a higher gear this season, revelling under the Italian’s tactics and guidance. He has been menacing so far, improving his goal scoring form, finding the back of the net 8 times already in 10 games in all competitions. In the Premier League, he has scored 7 goals from 8 games and has registered 3 assists. He has attempted 23 shots so far, 10 of which have been on target. He is currently averaging 58 passes per game and has already created 6 big chances. Eden Hazard, as such, is the number one contender among the Premier League Players for the Ballon d’Or 2018.