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Chelsea star Eden Hazard made a long-awaited move to Real Madrid at the end of last season, as he sealed an £88m transfer to the Spanish capital.

Willian has now admitted that it was no surprise that Hazard would join Real Madrid, that he was well aware of the Belgian’s impending departure even before the media started to carry the rumours.

Speaking to ESPN Brasil, Willian said: “By the time speculation started, we already knew. He had this desire to play in Madrid, it was something we were waiting for.

“Of course, it was certainly very bad to lose him as a good friend and workmate. But that was it: sad on the one hand and happy on the other.”

Hazard’s first season with the Los Blancos hasn’t gone as expected, and Willian also said Hazard has been “unfortunate with two injuries” at Real Madrid but believes his former teammate will come back stronger.

He added: “We played together for six years and lived special moments together. He’s a guy who’s still my friend today.”