Published on 11.10.2023
Eden Hazard, the former Lille, Chelsea and Real Madrid forward, has declared his retirement from professional football at the age of 32.
Hazard, renowned for his accomplishments in Chelsea’s Premier League triumphs, eventually transferred to Real Madrid in 2019. However, his tenure with the Spanish giants was marred by persistent injuries, and he managed only 76 appearances in four seasons before his departure this past summer.
“You must listen to yourself and stay stop at the right time,” he wrote on Instagram.
“After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer.
In a statement, Hazard reflected on his career: “I was fortunate to fulfill my childhood dream, experiencing the joy of playing on numerous pitches worldwide. Throughout my journey, I had the privilege of working with exceptional managers, coaches, and teammates. I extend my gratitude to everyone for the fantastic moments we shared, and I will miss you all.”
The former PFA Players’ Player of the Year in 2015 also expressed his appreciation to the clubs he represented, including LOSC, Chelsea, and Real Madrid, as well as the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) for his opportunities with the Belgian national team.
Chelsea acquired Hazard from Lille for £32 million in 2012, where he made 352 appearances and scored 110 goals. His time at the club was marked by numerous successes, including two Premier League titles, two Europa League victories, and triumphs in the FA Cup and League Cup.
Eden Hazard at Lille, aged 16-21:
— B/R Football (@brfootball) October 10, 2023
▪️ 194 games
▪️ 50 goals
▪️ 53 assists
▪️ Ligue 1 YPOTY in his first two full seasons
▪️ Ligue 1 POTY in his last two seasons
▪️ League + cup double in 2010-11
His highlight reel is absurd 🤯
(via @Ligue1_ENG)pic.twitter.com/Um9EhwjqvT
In July 2019, Hazard embarked on a new journey by joining Real Madrid in a deal valued at a club-record £130 million, inclusive of bonuses. While he initially signed a five-year contract until 2024, his spell at the Bernabeu was plagued by injuries and a drop in form.
During his tenure with Real, Hazard registered seven goals across 76 appearances, with 10 of those coming in all competitions during the 2022/23 season. His time with the club yielded two LaLiga titles, one Champions League title, and one Copa Del Rey.
