Hazard retires at the age of 32

Former Belgian international Eden Hazard announced the end of his playing career on October 10.

"You have to listen to yourself and know when to stop," Hazard wrote on Instagram on October 10. "After 16 years and more than 700 matches, I have decided to end my career as a player. I have fulfilled my dream, played and enjoyed myself on many pitches around the world."

Hazard played 126 matches for Belgium in his career. Photo: TA

Hazard also said that he was lucky to have great managers, coaches and teammates at both the Belgian national team as well as Lille, Chelsea and Real - the teams he has played for. He also thanked all of them, along with his family, friends, fans and those who have been by his side during difficult times. "Now is the time to enjoy the joy with loved ones and have new experiences. See you soon my friends," the Belgian star's post said.

Hazard became a free agent on July 1. Before that, he and Real agreed to terminate his contract a year early. After leaving Real, Hazard did not join any new team despite receiving interest from several clubs in Saudi Arabia, the US, Türkiye and three French clubs, including Nice, Marseille and Lille.

Hazard is the most disappointing signing in Real's history. After moving from Chelsea in 2019 for $100 million, the Belgian star played only 76 matches and scored seven goals. Hazard spent most of his time injured or on the bench due to a drop in form.

Before joining Real, Hazard was one of the world's top players. He scored 110 goals in 352 games for Chelsea, including 85 in the Premier League. During his seven years with Chelsea, Hazard won two Premier Leagues, an FA Cup, a League Cup and two Europa Leagues. He also won a Ligue 1 and a French Cup while playing for Lille.

At international level, Hazard is a shining star of the golden generation of Belgium. He played 126 matches for the team, scored 33 goals, participated in three World Cups and two Euros. Hazard's best achievement with Belgium was winning bronze medal at the 2018 World Cup.

On an individual basis, Hazard won the Silver Ball at the 2018 World Cup, the Premier League Player of the Year in 2014-2015, the Ligue 1 Player of the Year in 2010-2011, 2011-2012, the Europa League Player of the Year in 2018-2019 and the Belgian Player of the Year in 2017, 2018, 2019.

Vy Anh

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