At the age of just 32, Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from football.
The Belgian departed Real Madrid in the summer of 2023, a year before his contract was due to expire, and didn’t sign with any other club despite various rumours.
Following an injury suffered in his first season at Real Madrid, in a Champions League clash against PSG in the 2019/20 campaign, Hazard was never the same and struggled with injuries at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.
He retires having achieved success with Lille and then, most notably, with Chelsea and the Belgian national team, who he led to third place at the 2018 World Cup.
The player made the announcement via social media, sharing a post in which he explained his reasoning.
“You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time,” his statement on Instagram started.
“After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer.
“I was able to realise my dream, I have played and had fun on many pitches around the world.
“During my career I was lucky to meet great managers, coaches and teammates – thank you to everyone for these great times, I will miss you all.
“I also want to thank the clubs I have played for: LOSC, Chelsea and Real Madrid; and thank the RBFA for my Belgian Selection.
“A special thank you to my family, my friends, my advisors and the people who have been close to me in good times and bad.
“Finally, a huge thank you to you, my fans, who have followed me for all these years and for your encouragement everywhere I have played.
“Now is the time to enjoy my loved ones and have new experiences.
“See you off the field soon my friends.”
