Ivan Rakitic warns Barcelona 'world class' Eden Hazard is not Chelsea's only threat

Vaishali Bhardwaj20 February 2018

Ivan Rakitic has labelled Eden Hazard "world class" and believes the winger will be the Chelsea's most dangerous player against Barcelona.

Rakitic's Barca take on Antonio Conte's side in the Champions League round-of-16 first-leg tie at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night, with Hazard set to start in his favoured position on the left wing.

The Belgian was rested for Chelsea's FA Cup clash with Hull on Friday night, but netted twice in the club's 3-0 Premier League win over West Brom last Monday.

And Rakitic believes Barcelona must watch out for Hazard on Tuesday because of his pace and goal-threat.

AFP/Getty Images

Speaking to reporters at Stamford Bridge on Monday, Rakitic said about whether Hazard is world-class: "For me, he is.

"He's maybe the most important player for Chelsea. But we know that Chelsea are not only Hazard.

"For sure, we have to be ready tomorrow to stop him. We know he's really fast and goes one-against-one.

"In his last games, he's in really good form. We have to be ready for him.

"But also for the whole team. It will be a very special game tomorrow, and we have to enjoy it."

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