Eden Hazard Retires From Football At 32, Says “I Realised My Dream, I Played And I Had Fun”

Former Chelsea and Real Madrid forward, Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from professional football.

The 32-year-old Chelsea legend secured two Premier League titles at Stamford Bridge before joining Real Madrid in a high-profile £150 million deal in 2019.

Unfortunately, his La Liga career was hindered by a series of injuries, limiting him to just 76 appearances in four seasons with Real Madrid.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Eden Hazard expressed his gratitude for a successful 16-year career, spanning more than 700 matches.

He acknowledged the support of managers, coaches, teammates, and fans throughout his journey.

Hazard extended thanks to the clubs he played for — LOSC (Lille), Chelsea, and Real Madrid — as well as the RBFA for his time with the Belgian national team.

The football star emphasized the importance of enjoying time with loved ones and embarking on new experiences in this new chapter of his life.

Announcing his retirement, he 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 [Lille], 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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The announcement marks the end of a remarkable career that included triumphs with Lille, Chelsea, and the Belgian national team, where he led them to a third-place finish in the 2018 World Cup.

While his stint with Real Madrid saw limited playing time due to injuries, Hazard’s overall career featured impressive achievements.

He scored 110 goals in 352 matches for Chelsea, contributing significantly to two Premier League title victories.

He also secured the FA Cup, League Cup, and two Europa League titles during his time with at Stamford Bridge.

Hazard, a 126-cap international, retires as the fourth-highest appearance-maker and second-highest goal-scorer in the history of the Belgian national team.

KanyiDaily recalls that former Chelsea midfielder, John Mikel Obi had described Eden Hazard as the ‘laziest player’ he has ever worked with.