Former Chelsea and Real Madrid player Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from sport at the age of 32.
Hazard confirmed the news in an Instagram post, saying he had decided it was time to call it quits on his career. Since leaving Real Madrid as a free agent in the summer, the Belgian has been without a club. Hazard reportedly had offers to continue his career but chose to retire.
“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.”
Hazard is leaving Real Madrid following a four-year stint in which he failed to live up to his expensive price tag. The Belgian left after shining for Chelsea in the Premier League, where he won two titles and scored 110 goals in 352 appearances.
