Eden Hazard hangs his boots
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| Eden Hazard |
Football player Eden Hazard has declared his retirement from the game.
The 32-year-old Belgian has been without a club since Real Madrid released him this summer due to a breach in his contract.
Hazard played a crucial role in Lille's 2011 Ligue 1 championship squad, becoming as one of the most gifted young players in European football.
Teams from all over Europe pursued him after he declared he was going to Chelsea, where he was always one of their most well-liked and productive players.
He totaled 110 goals in 352 games for the Blues, winning the FA Cup and League Cup once, the Premier League twice, and two UEFA Europa League championships.
Real Madrid paid a reputed €100 million (£86.4 million) for Hazard's transfer in 2019, but the player suffered from injuries soon after and never appeared in more than 18 league games for Real in a season.
He also had to contend with Vinicius Jr.'s challenge for a spot, as the Brazilian became an important player at the Bernabeu.
Hazard was linked to several other teams, but he ultimately decided to retire after Real Madrid and Hazard terminated his contract early in the summer.
He won the UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Copa del Rey, and La Liga twice while playing for Real Madrid.
He also played for Belgium, earning 126 caps, and he was a member of the World Cup winning squad in 2018.
n a statement posted to his Instagram account on Tuesday, Hazard wrote: “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 team-mates - 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.”
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