Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones has stirred debate among football fans after claiming Eden Hazard is a “better footballer” than Mohamed Salah.
Speaking on TNT Sports with former England defender Rio Ferdinand, Jones praised Hazard’s artistry on the pitch while acknowledging Salah’s remarkable impact at Liverpool.
Jones’s comments are likely to raise eyebrows, especially among Liverpool supporters, given Salah’s iconic status at Anfield.
That’s my case, and I know it might be a little left-field with our fans because of the comparisons, but Hazard for me,” Jones said during the interview.
Hazard’s dazzling legacy
Eden Hazard’s reputation as one of the Premier League’s most skillful players is undisputed.
During his time at Chelsea, the Belgian winger secured two league titles and was named the 2014 Premier League Player of the Year.
His ability to mesmerize defenders and influence games earned him widespread admiration.
Jones spoke of Hazard’s inspirational style, saying, “I know we compare him to Mo, I say that as a player, as someone who loves the game, when I wanted to be like a player I felt like Hazard was the one.
Every time I watched him, I thought, ‘wow, that was football.'”
Salah’s decisive edge
While Hazard’s technical brilliance is undeniable, Salah’s achievements and consistency make the comparison contentious.
Since joining Liverpool in 2017, the Egyptian forward has been prolific, breaking records and helping the club secure major trophies, including the Premier League and Champions League titles.
During their overlapping years in England, Salah consistently outperformed Hazard in goal contributions.
Hazard’s most prolific season saw him net 21 goals, whereas Salah’s record-breaking 2017-18 campaign ended with an astonishing 44 goals.
Jones acknowledged Salah’s superiority in productivity.
As a footballer, is he better than Mo, in my opinion, yes.
But who would you rather have in your team? You’re going to say Mo, because he allows you to score goals and make assists.
Contrasting trajectories
After leaving Chelsea for Real Madrid in 2019, Hazard’s career was plagued by injuries and inconsistent form, leading to his early retirement. Salah, meanwhile, continues to thrive.
This season, the Egyptian forward has already recorded 18 goals and 13 assists in just 21 Premier League matches, further solidifying his legacy as one of the league’s all-time greats.
Jones’s remarks have reignited the debate over whether artistry or output defines greatness, but the comparison underscores the lasting impact both players have had on the sport.
