In 2019, the player known as Eden Hazard, aged 32, made a high-profile move from Chelsea to Real Madrid for a staggering £89 million. However, his tenure with the Spanish giants was marked by brevity. As he participated in a mere 54 league matches before departing at the conclusion of the previous season. While at Stamford Bridge, he clinched two Premier League championships.
Reflecting on his career, Hazard, now a free agent after the termination of his contract in June, imparted some wisdom, stating, “One must attentively heed their inner voice and discern when it’s time to call it quits.” After a remarkable journey spanning 16 years and encompassing over 700 matches. He resolved to draw the curtain on his professional footballing career.
Notably, Hazard had already bid adieu to international football in December of the preceding year, following Belgium’s elimination from the 2022 World Cup during the group stages. During his stint with Real Madrid, he accomplished a notable feat, securing the Champions League. A Club World Cup, European Super Cup, two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, and two Spanish Super Cups. However, his sojourn in Spain is generally deemed underwhelming, considering he netted a mere seven goals in 76 appearances across all competitions.
Chelsea, recognizing his impact as “one of the greatest players in Chelsea history,” extended a warm invitation for his return to Stamford Bridge. Hazard’s professional voyage commenced with the French club Lille, where he notched 50 goals in 149 appearances and played a pivotal role in securing a domestic double of Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France in the 2010-11 season.
In the summer of 2012, Chelsea acquired his services for a reported sum of £32 million. A move that would cement his status as a club legend. In recognition of his brilliance. He was bestow with the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award in the 2014-15 season. Hazard’s legacy at Chelsea was punctuate by 110 goals across 352 appearances. Culminating in a triumphant send-off with a winning goal in the 2019 Europa League final against Arsenal.
Furthermore, he stands as one of just four players in Premier League annals, alongside Thierry Henry, Matt Le Tissier, and Eric Cantona, to tally 15 or more goals and provide 15 or more assists in a single season. His feat of 16 goals and 15 assists during the 2018-19 campaign is etch in history.
Eden Hazard, in a heartfelt message shared on social media, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Throughout my career, I was fortunate to cross paths with exceptional managers, coaches, and teammates. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who enriched these remarkable moments; you shall missed.” He also extended appreciation to the clubs he represented – LOSC, Chelsea, and Real Madrid. And conveyed his gratitude to the RBFA for his selection in the Belgian national team.
He reserved a special acknowledgment for his family, friends, advisors, and those who stood by him through thick and thin. Furthermore, concluding his message, he lavished praise on his loyal fans who have followed his journey for many years. With great anticipation, he expressed his desire to reconnect with them off the field.
Eden Hazard, who debuted for Belgium against Luxembourg in 2008. Amassed 126 caps for his nation, finding the back of the net 33 times. His international journey included participation in three World Cups and two European Championships. Where he donned the captain’s armband on 56 occasions. Notably, he contributed three goals to Belgium’s third-place finish in the 2018 World Cup. Including a memorable strike against England in the third-place playoff match.
