Former football sensation Eden Hazard has officially retired from the sport at the age of 32. The former Real Madrid and Chelsea winger made the announcement on Tuesday, just four months after parting ways with the Spanish giants.
Hazard, a former Belgium international, joined Real Madrid in 2019 as the club’s most expensive signing. However, his time in the Spanish capital was marred by injuries and difficulties in settling down, resulting in a disappointing four-year tenure. Nevertheless, Hazard managed to secure several trophies during his stint at Real Madrid, including the Champions League and two LaLiga titles.
In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram, Hazard stated, “You must listen to yourself and know when it’s time to stop. After 16 years and over 700 matches played, I have made the decision to retire as a professional footballer. I have achieved my dream, enjoyed playing on various pitches around the world, and now it’s time to cherish my loved ones and embark on new adventures.”
Hazard’s journey to stardom began when he joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012. With the London club, he won the Europa League in 2013 and 2019, along with the Premier League title in 2015 and 2017. Additionally, he clinched victory in the League Cup and FA Cup.
On the international stage, Hazard made his senior debut for Belgium in 2008. He scored a remarkable 33 goals in 126 games, leading the Belgian national team to a third-place finish in the 2018 World Cup. Unfortunately, following Belgium’s group stage exit in last year’s World Cup in Qatar, Hazard decided to retire from international football.
Eden Hazard’s retirement marks the end of an era for football fans worldwide. His exceptional talents and contributions to the sport will be celebrated and remembered for years to come.