Eden Hazard has expressed his wish that the Tottenham Hotspur fans will warmly embrace Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino on his long-awaited return to Spurs, marking his first appearance at the club since his dismissal four years ago. Drawing from his own personal history, Hazard notably scored two goals for Chelsea in a 3-1 victory during his return in 1985.
Reflecting on his own experience, Hazard has expressed a strong desire for a cordial and respectful reception. He has indicated that fans should acknowledge and appreciate the work that Pochettino had put in during his tenure at Spurs while understanding his subsequent responsibility to his new club, Chelsea. Even though Hazard himself scored against Spurs upon his return, he firmly believes that the fans comprehended that it was not intended as a slight against their beloved team.
Hazard has placed significant emphasis on the importance of rising above the intense rivalry between the two London clubs. He has proposed that demonstrating dignity and class should be at the forefront of welcoming Pochettino back to the stadium. This proposed welcome, as clarified by Hazard, is not meant to be a full-fledged guard of honor, as suggested by Ange Postecoglou, but rather a simple and heartfelt round of applause, serving as a sign of acknowledgment and recognition for Pochettino’s impressive achievements during his time at Tottenham.
In essence, Hazard’s message carries a fundamental theme of respecting and honoring the past contributions of the returning manager. It underscores the idea that fans can simultaneously maintain a competitive spirit once the game commences. The initial act of welcoming Pochettino is intended as a gesture of recognition and respect for his legacy and accomplishments, setting the stage for a match that can be fiercely competitive while still being underpinned by mutual respect.
