Eden Hazard has revealed former Chelsea player Joe Cole played a massive part in his decision to move to Stamford Bridge.
It's eight years today since Hazard delighted Blues fans around the world with his message of 'I'm signing for the Champions League winner.'
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Cole spent the 2011/12 season on loan at Ligue 1 side, where Hazard was then plying his trade.
It was his last season at the club before moving to West London and Hazard revealed that the former Chelsea star was a key factor in him making the move.
"I spoke to him before I signed for Chelsea. Every day, seriously, he was telling me that Chelsea was the best club for me," Hazard told Chelsea's official Twitter page.
"He said Chelsea was a big club where you can trophies every season. For that reason, I signed, so thank you, Joe Cole!"
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Cole spent seven years at The Bridge and won three Premier League trophies and two FA Cups.
The English International also had spells at West Ham, Liverpool, Lille, Aston Villa, Coventry and Tampa Bay Rowdies during his 20-year career.
Meanwhile, Hazard went on to become one of Chelsea's best players of the last decade.
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He helped the club to two Premier League titles, two FA Cups, two Europa Leagues and a League Cup.
Hazard's last game came in the form of the 2019 Europa League final when he shone in a 4-1 thrashing of Arsenal.
It was common knowledge that the winger was set to move on after that game and he delivered a touching goodbye in Baku.
"I think it's a goodbye," he told BT Sport. "But in football you never know.
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"My dream was to play in the Premier League. I think it's time for a new challenge.
"I've made my decision. Now it depends on the clubs. Both clubs."
Hazard went on to seal a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid and although his career in Spain is yet to truly take off, there's no denying his impact on English football.
Featured Image Credit: PA ImagesTopics: Football News, Eden Hazard, Football
