NEWS DIGEST- Former Chelsea and Real Madrid player Eden Hazard retires from football at 32. Hazard, a Belgium International, won two Premier League titles with Chelsea and joined Real Madrid in a £130m deal in 2019.
However, he only managed to score seven goals in 76 appearances for the Spanish giants, despite winning two La Liga titles, a Champions League, and a Copa Del Rey. Hazard’s time at Bernabeu was marred by injuries and underwhelming performances.
Hazard made the announcement on social media, stating that “after 16 years and more than 700 matches played” he had decided to end his career.
In his statement, Hazard thanked his fans, teammates, coaches, managers and the clubs he played for – LOSC, Chelsea and Real Madrid. He added that he had been lucky to meet many great people during his career and that he would miss them all. The former PFA Players’ Player of the Year also said that he had “realized my dream” and “played and had fun on many pitches around the world.”
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Chelsea signed Hazard for £32m in 2012 and he made 352 appearances for the club, scoring 110 goals, while winning two Premier League titles, two Europa Leagues, the FA Cup and League Cup. In contrast to his successful tenure at Chelsea, his time at Real Madrid saw him struggle for form and question marks hung over his commitment to training.
He told a Belgian newspaper in 2021 that he was “falling asleep” during training sessions and his weight increased, leading to criticism from fans and analysis from experts. The player has also experienced several injuries during his time with Real Madrid, affecting his ability to play and drawing criticism from fans who were unhappy with his performances.
In recent years, football has gained a reputation as a tough and exacting sport that can lead to physical and mental health issues for players. Hazard’s statement referred to the importance of “listening to yourself” and making decisions at the right time. Ending his career and focusing on his loved ones was his way of prioritizing balance in his life and maintaining his health.
In retirement, Hazard will be able to spend time with his family, travel, and develop new interests. Fans will miss his on-pitch performances, but many understand the importance of maintaining balance and taking care of health. Football can be an exciting and rewarding sport, but as Hazard’s statement suggests, it’s important to listen to oneself and make decisions based on what is best for one’s health and personal life.
The football community has responded to Hazard’s announcement with admiration and respect, praising his talent, work ethic, and contributions to the sport. As fans, players, and coaches look back on his career, one thing is clear: Hazard’s legacy in football will be long-lasting.
“You must listen to yourself and stop at the right time,” he wrote.
“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.”
Hazard, named PFA Players’ Player of the Year in 2015, added: “I also want to thank the clubs I have played for: LOSC, Chelsea and Real Madrid; and thank the RBFA for my Belgian selection.
“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.”
