Hazard Pushes for Fabregas at Chelsea & Eyes Yildiz Signing

Eden Hazard is making his voice heard loud and clear. The Chelsea icon is publicly campaigning for his former teammate Cesc Fabregas to take over at Stamford Bridge, and he's not mincing words about it.

In a candid interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Hazard revealed his ideal vision for Chelsea's future. He disclosed that he spoke with Fabregas this past summer, telling him "it's time for him to go back to Chelsea." The Belgian star believes his ex-midfield colleague is destined for coaching excellence.

"I told him he was among the greatest midfielders ever and that he's meant to become one of the top managers too," Hazard shared. "As a Chelsea supporter, I want what's best for the club. My dream is watching Cesc managing from the bench while I'm cheering from the stands, taking in the spectacle."

The timing is particularly noteworthy. Chelsea recently hired Liam Rosenior following the dismissal of Enzo Maresca just weeks ago. While Fabregas was reportedly in contention for the position, the Blues ultimately chose Rosenior, who had demonstrated his capabilities at sister club Strasbourg.

Yildiz Tops Hazard's Transfer Targets

When questioned about which Serie A player Fabregas should pursue for Chelsea, Hazard didn't hesitate. Juventus sensation Kenan Yildiz earned his enthusiastic endorsement, though Hazard acknowledges the Turkish prodigy could also suit Real Madrid.

"My children are obsessed with Yildiz. They constantly watch highlight reels of his skills and would love to see him playing in the Premier League," Hazard revealed. The 19-year-old phenom carries a valuation of approximately £87 million and would constitute a marquee acquisition for any top-flight English club.

For bettors monitoring Chelsea's transfer activity, this adds an intriguing layer. Any instability in the manager's office at Stamford Bridge could influence their chances for Champions League qualification and silverware across various competitions.

Manchester City Join the Pursuit

The plot thickens considerably here. Fabregas isn't exclusively on Chelsea's shortlist. Manchester City are reportedly considering the Como manager as a possible replacement for Pep Guardiola.

Mounting speculation suggests Guardiola might depart after spending a decade at the Etihad. While his deal extends through 2027, Premier League insiders hint he could exit earlier. City have dismissed such talk as "pure speculation," yet the rumours persist.

Fabregas features on City's candidate list alongside Xabi Alonso and Enzo Maresca. The Spanish tactician has achieved remarkable results at Como, guiding them to tenth place in Serie A following their promotion. Currently, they're positioned sixth and challenging for European qualification.

Inside sources indicate Fabregas would "only consider departing for an elite Premier League or European opportunity." Succeeding Guardiola at City certainly meets that criteria. So does returning to Chelsea, where he captured two Premier League championships as a player.

This managerial carousel could dramatically impact betting markets. Monitor both Chelsea and City's odds closely as this situation unfolds.