Hazard has decided to retire from professional football.
The 32-year-old Belgian had been without a club since his contract was canceled by Real Madrid this summer. Hazard emerged as one of Europe’s most gifted young players as a vital member of Lille’s Ligue 1 winning club in 2011.
He was pursued by teams all around Europe before announcing his move to Chelsea, where he was routinely one of their most popular and effective players. In total, he scored 110 goals in 352 games with the Blues, helping them win the Premier League twice, the UEFA Europa League twice, and the FA Cup and League Cup once.
His form earned him a move to Real Madrid in 2019 for a rumoured sum of €100 million (£86.4 million), although he suffered with injuries after joining and never played more than 18 league games for Real in a single season.
He was also up against Vinicius Jr for his spot, as the Brazilian emerged as a vital player at the Bernabeu.
Hazard’s contract with Real Madrid ran out a year early in the summer and has decided to retire despite having links with a number of other clubs.
He won La Liga twice with Real Madrid, as well as the Copa del Rey, UEFA Champions League, and UEFA Super Cup.
He also has 126 caps for Belgium and was a member of the team that finished third in the 2018 World Cup.
Hazard quits International Football
Hazard said on his Instagram account on Tuesday, “You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time.”After 16 years and over 700 matches, I have decided to call it quits as a professional player.
“I was able to realize my dream, and I’ve had a lot of fun playing on many pitches all over the world.”
“Throughout my career, I was fortunate to meet great managers, coaches, and teammates; thank you to everyone for these wonderful memories; I will miss you all.”
“I’d also like to thank the clubs I’ve played for, including LOSC, Chelsea, and Real Madrid, as well as the RBFA for my Belgian selection.”
“A special thank you to my family, friends, advisors, and everyone who has been there for me in good and bad times.”
“Finally, I want to thank you, my fans, for sticking with me all these years and for your support wherever I’ve played.
“Now is the time to spend with my loved ones and try new things.”
“See you off the field soon my friends.”
