Eden Hazard announces retirement from football

Eden Hazard was free agent during last summer transfer window

Eden Hazard, a former star for Chelsea and Real Madrid, has announced his retirement from football at the age of 32.

In a message on Instagram, Eden Hazard verified the information and stated that he had decided it was the perfect time to end his career.

"You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time. 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."

The Belgian left Real Madrid in the course of the summer of 2023, one year before the end of his agreement, and despite numerous reports, he failed to sign with any other team.

Eden Hazard grappled with ailments at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu after suffering an injury in the inaugural season at Real Madrid during a Champions League match against PSG in the 2019–20 season. Hazard never looked comparable after that injury.

After enjoying success with Lille, Chelsea, and the Belgian national team, where he resulted in finishing third at the 2018 World Cup, Eden Hazard announced his retirement.