Former Chelsea star Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from professional football, aged 32.
The former Chelsea star Eden Hazard has been a free agent since his decision in the summer to terminate his £400,000-a-week Real Madrid contract.
The diminutive winger joined the Spanish giants four years ago for a fee in excess of £100m and arrived as arguably the most in-form wide forward in world football.
His time in Spain, however, was an unmitigated disaster with a series of injuries reducing him to a bit-part role in the success the club enjoyed under his hero Zinedine Zidane and latterly Carlo Ancelotti.
Hazard confirmed his retirement from international football earlier this year following Belgium’s disappointing Group Stage exit at the 2022 World Cup and has now called time on his career altogether.
In a lengthy statement on Instagram, Hazard said: ‘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 teammates – 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.’ the former Chelsea star Eden Hazard added.