Inter Miami, the Major League Soccer (MLS) side, has set its sights on acquiring former Real Madrid attacker Eden Hazard. According to Relevo[1], the 32-year-old Belgian footballer has become a subject of interest for the team following his release from Los Blancos. Having spent four challenging years at Real Madrid, Hazard now has the opportunity to join any club on a free transfer.
Eden Hazard’s Career Crossroads
As Hazard continues his vacation with his family, he finds himself at a career crossroads[1]. While retirement rumors circulated, the Belgian player remains open-minded and is taking his time to make a well-thought-out decision about his future in football.
Inter Miami’s Pursuit
Inter Miami is actively trying to persuade Hazard to become part of their ambitious project[1]. The team has already made significant signings, including the legendary Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets. Messi, who left Barcelona due to the club’s financial issues, found his new home with Inter Miami after the Saudi League failed to present a reasonable offer[1]. Similarly, Busquets, having made over 700 appearances for Barcelona, chose to join his friend in America instead of accepting an offer from Saudi Arabia[1].
The MLS side is not stopping there. In addition to their pursuit of Hazard, Inter Miami has set its sights on two other Barcelona legends: Jordi Alba and Andres Iniesta[1]. While negotiations for these deals are still ongoing, the team is determined to secure the services of Hazard and make him another “designated player” in the squad, just like Messi.
Designated Player Rule in MLS
The designated player rule in MLS allows teams to sign up to three players outside their salary cap, which is currently set at $5.2 million[1]. This regulation, implemented before the 2007 season, restricts MLS sides from signing multiple star players from the international market.
Interest from RWD Molenbeek
Interestingly, RWD Molenbeek, a club in the Belgian top flight, has also expressed interest in Hazard[1]. The team, which recently climbed into the Belgian Pro League, aims to bring both Hazard brothers, with Kylian Hazard already on their roster, ahead of the next season.
Inter Miami’s Bold Move
Despite RWD Molenbeek’s offer, Inter Miami remains determined to secure Hazard’s signature[2]. The team’s strong pursuit of the Belgian forward aligns with their vision of building a star-studded squad. However, it should be noted that Inter Miami’s designated player slots are already filled, which means Hazard would need to consider potential pay cuts or adjustments for the deal to materialize[2].
Challenges for Inter Miami
While the addition of big names like Messi and potentially Hazard can generate excitement, it does not guarantee immediate improvement for Inter Miami[2]. Toronto FC’s experience serves as a cautionary tale, as their signings of Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernadeschi did not significantly transform their performance. Building a successful team requires a thoughtful roster-building strategy beyond simply adding expensive, aging players.
Eden Hazard’s Future
As Hazard enjoys quality time with his family, he carefully weighs his options and considers his next move[3]. While his contract with Real Madridhas been terminated, Hazard’s passion for the game remains, and retirement is not on the table at the moment[3]. Inter Miami, along with Belgian Pro League side Molenbeek, is vying for his signature[1][3]. However, Hazard’s decision regarding his future remains undecided as he explores all possibilities and evaluates the best path forward.
In conclusion, Inter Miami’s pursuit of Eden Hazard showcases their ambition to create a formidable team alongside the likes of Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets. The MLS side is determined to convince Hazard to join their ranks and become a designated player, despite the challenges of roster management. As Hazard weighs his options, the football world eagerly awaits his decision, which will undoubtedly shape the next chapter of his illustrious career.
References:
[1] Football Today. (2023, July 6). Inter Miami target Eden Hazard to join Messi and Busquets. Link [2] Football Transfers. (2023, July 6). Inter Miami want Chelsea LEGEND to team up with Messi. Link [3] Goal. (n.d.). Inter Miami launch audacious attempt to link Eden Hazard up with Lionel Messi in MLS after Real Madrid exit. Link
