Eden Hazard names best player from each top nation and picks Spanish player who wasn't even selected for Euro 2024

Eden Hazard was put on the spot after being asked to name the best player from eight different countries that will compete at this summer's European Championsip.

The former Belgium international, who decided to walk away from football in October last year, aged just 32, made a welcome return to action at the King's World Cup in Mexico.

He laced up his boots again, making a debut appearance for Deptostra FC alongside Belgian YouTube personality Celine Dept and brother Ethan Hazard. amongst others.

And after the full-time whistle, he spoke to reporters about a number of subjects, including his take on who should replace Mauricio Pochettino as the new Chelsea manager.

Hazard also opened up to talkSPORT on the best players from several top European countries, including England, Germany, France, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and Portugal.

Norway were also mentioned, even though their hopes of qualification ended after finishing behind Spain and Scotland in Group A.

Phil Foden was named England's best player following his stellar campaign for Manchester City before Hazard identified Bayern Munich playmaker Jamal Musiala as Germany's top performer.

Unsurprisingly, Kylian Mbappe was chosen by the former Chelsea winger as France's best player, while Marco Verratti [Italy], Kevin De Bruyne [Belgium] and Virgil van Dijk [Netherlands] were selected for their respective country.

Perhaps the most surprising pick of the interview came from Spain, when he selected former teammate Cesar Azpilicueta, who was left out of Luis de la Fuente's provisional squad for Euro 2024.

Portugal's all-time top goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo also made the list alongside Norway midfielder Martin Odegaard, who will watch this summer's tournament at home.

As mentioned earlier, Hazard also spoke about the recent departure of Mauricio Pochettino.

“I was a bit sad, to be fair. I think that he did a great job," he said. "I know that people want Chelsea to be in the top four but it’s just a season of transition. He’s a great manager, I wish him good luck and let’s see who is going to be there in the future.”

The Belgian was then asked if Roberto De Zerbi would be a "good option" to take the reigns.

“Maybe," he grinned. "I also have my friend in Como, he can be the first manager."