Real Madrid fans were eager to watch Eden Hazard wearing the team's new kit for the first time, and they showed up to the Bernabeu in what turned out to be record numbers for the Spanish giants.
The footballer was unveiled by president Florentino Pérez at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium's box, in front of his family and team execs, but the real news came when the former Chelsea playmaker stepped into the pitch to show his skills in front of a packed Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
Hazard was praised by a bit over 50,000 fans who made their way into the Bernabeu's stands, which helps him enter the team's record books, as only Cristiano Ronaldo managed to pack more fans inside the stadium in his unveiling ceremony. Over 70,000 fans made it to the Bernabeu to welcome CR7 ten years ago, and Hazard is now second on that list, surpassing Kaka's numbers.
In fact, this ceremony saw more Real Madrid fans making their way into the Bernabeu's stands than in most of the team's games last season.
5th May: 46,000 Real Madrid fans watch their team win 3-2 against Villarreal
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) June 13, 2019
13th June: 50,000 Real Madrid fans watch Eden Hazard be unveiled pic.twitter.com/0ruiaqQohH
The big moment for Real Madrid fans came when they asked Hazard to kiss the team's badge. The Belgian footballer granted their request.
The #RMFans ask for @hazardeden10 to kiss the badge... AND HE DOES! #WelcomeHazard | #HalaMadrid pic.twitter.com/3ioqxJvTSm
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) June 13, 2019
The player later admitted in the press conference that Real Madrid did try to sign him last season, but he ended up playing for Chelsea, where he won the UEFA Europa League title. Last, but not least, Hazard took the microphone to send a message in Spanish to his new supporters.
Many thanks... and #HALAMADRID!@hazardeden10 | #WelcomeHazard pic.twitter.com/AYGeSRpMcM
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) June 13, 2019