This archive report was first published on 29 July 2019.
Eden Hazard's highly anticipated move to Real Madrid earlier this summer was expected to bolster the team's chances in the new season. However, the Belgian's recent arrival at the club's pre-season tour in Montreal has raised concerns about his weight gain.
According to a Daily Mail report, Hazard reported for duty about seven kilograms overweight, causing friction within the club. Club president Florentino Perez has distanced himself from playing a part in the acquisition of the former Chelsea star, and is understood to have lost confidence in Hazard, insisting he signed him only at the request of coach Zinedine Zidane.
This is not the first time Hazard has struggled with weight gain going into a new season. During the 2015-2016 campaign, he attributed his disastrous start to the season to his weight.
Despite the club's performances being underwhelming during their tour, coach Zidane is now facing a fresh challenge at the club, bordering on Hazard's weight gain.
Real Madrid signed Hazard in a £150million switch, hoping to bolster their squad after an underwhelming season at both the continental and domestic stages.
However, the new-look Madrid has failed to impress during their tour, underlining a fresh headache for Zidane ahead of the new season.
