Eden Hazard really exceeded expectations at the World Cup.
After a fairly decent season with Chelsea in which he scored 12 Premier League goals, the onus was on the winger to finally perform for Belgium at a major tournament.
And he certainly did that, scoring three goals and recording four assists as the Red Devils narrowly lost in the semi-final to France - eventually finishing third after beating England.
Hazard left Russia with the Silver Ball award for his displays, only Croatian legend Luka Modric bettering the mercurial forward.
With his international exploits now at an end, the focus now switches to his future in club football.
Throughout the World Cup, rumours of a move to Real Madrid persisted, with Barcelona even being thrown into the picture.
Given that he only has two years remaining on his current deal with Chelsea, a mega-money move away from Stamford Bridge has never looked more likely.
And his Belgium manager Roberto Martinez has given his opinion on the matter, stating that he believes this summer is the right time for a fresh challenge.
"It could be the best time [for Hazard] to try something different," he told Spanish outlet Cadena Ser.
"For me, it’s very easy to answer that question. He could fit in any team in the world. Players need new challenges and new projects.
"Perhaps it’s a good time for [Chelsea] and for Eden [to split]. I would be very surprised if Chelsea didn’t have big offers for him right now."
Not what Chelsea fans wanted to hear.
Martinez then gave his thoughts on Hazard after working with him out in Russia, commending him for his leadership qualities.
"Eden is a player you don’t really know until you work with him," Martinez added.
"I've been pleasantly surprised. He has such maturity and leadership skills.
"Eden is one of the few players that exist around the world where his play is based on talent one on one."
After seeing all he had to offer in Russia and given Cristiano Ronaldo's departure, it seems a certainty that Real Madrid will make him their priority this summer.