In a shocking turn of events, Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from soccer. The 32-year-old winger had been left without a club this season after his agreement at the Santiago Bernabeu was ended. It’s now reported that Eden Hazard’s brother, Kylian, has encouraged the former Chelsea and Real Madrid star to hang up his boots.
Eden was reportedly signed for $106 million by Real Madrid in 2019, as a potential Cristiano Ronaldo replacement. He was given the #7 jersey, previously worn by Ronaldo. Hazard had been sensational for Chelsea in the Premier League. So it was expected to be a game-changing move for both the player and the club.
BREAKING: Eden Hazard has retired from professional football at the age of 32. pic.twitter.com/9JWetp51NA
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 10, 2023
However, the Belgian star experienced various injuries subsequent to his exit from the Blues to join the Los Blancos. That was the reason he found it difficult to establish himself as a starter in the lineup.
In any event, when he was available for selection, the Belgium international couldn’t out-perform Vinicius Junior, Marco Asensio, or Rodrygo on the pitch. Even Ancelotti preferred to play Federico Valverede as a right winger over Hazard.
At last, Eden Hazard’s contract was terminated at Madrid despite having one year left. Since turning into a free agent, there had been a lot of speculations over Hazard’s future. With those near to him guaranteeing that he’s dismissed proposals from more than six clubs, as the Belgian winger always prioritized playing in Europe.
💙🧬 Eden Hazard and Chelsea…
👤 352 appearances
⚽️ 110 goals
🅰️ 92 assists🏆 Premier League x2
🏆 FA Cup
🏆 League Cup
🏆 UEFA Europa League x2⭐️ Chelsea Player of the Year 2014, 2015, 2017, 2019.
⭐️ Chelsea Players’ Player of the Year 2015, 2019.
🍿 Chelsea Goal of… pic.twitter.com/ZjZM2DV8oa
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 10, 2023
Kylian Hazard, the younger brother of Eden, represents Belgian G Pro League side RWD Molenbeek. He has uncovered that Hazard has made a stride back from soccer. However keeps on living in Madrid, the Spanish capital. As indicated by him, Hazard isn’t moving to any club now as he has chosen to unwind.
In an interview with the Spanish publication Diario AS, he said, “At the moment he’s not moving, but I don’t know if his career is over,”. Kylian added, “He still loves soccer, it has always been his greatest passion, and that is why he gave everything for every team he played for.”
Kylian Hazard: “At the moment he’s not moving, but I don’t know if his career is over. If he makes a final decision, it will be up to him to say so. Eden is in Madrid, because his children go to school there & he has decided to relax for now. He is trying to enjoy life for now.” pic.twitter.com/zKQrtYliUn
— 𝖁𝖆𝖒𝖔𝖘 𝕳𝖆𝖟𝖆𝖗𝖉 ⚪️🇧🇪 (@VamosHazard_) October 8, 2023
He also said that the Belgian winger has won trophies for every club he has represented, including Real Madrid. He concluded by saying that if he were Eden, he would retire immediately. It’s justifiable as after a long career loaded with trophies, he deserves to spend time with his family.
Former players and teammates react to Eden Hazard’s retirement
Many former players have reacted to Eden Hazard’s untimely retirement. Responding to his retirement post on Instagram, his former teammate at Chelsea, Juan Mata said, “Oh, how I enjoyed playing with this guy…One of the best”. Chelsea legend Frank Lampard also commented, “Congratulations, what talent and what a career.”
View this post on Instagram
Fellow Chelsea team-mate Danny Drinkwater also said: “Was a short period we spent together bro… but it was an honor! True magician. All the best.” Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois wrote, “Thank you for everything, my friend!” The Chelsea FC X account wrote, “Eden Hazard: One of the greatest to play the game. Thank you for everything and good luck in your retirement.”
Hazard scored 85 goals and recorded 54 assists for Chelsea in the Premier League, winning two league titles. He recorded 4 goals in 54 appearances for Real Madrid. Meanwhile, he won 2 La Ligas, 1 Copa Del Rey, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup with the Los Blancos.