Former Chelsea and Real Madrid winger Eden Hazard has announced that he has retired from professional football – here is what he said.
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On Tuesday, the former Belgium international confirmed his decision to hang up his boots at 32 years old following his free-agent departure from Real Madrid at the end of last season.
"You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time," he said in a statement on social media, according to the BBC.
"After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer.
"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 had been out of contract since bidding farewell to Los Blancos earlier this year, and had been linked with clubs in Saudi Arabia and the United States before calling it a day.
The ex-footballer will be best remembered for his incredible seven-year stay at Chelsea in England, during which he contributed to an impressive 202 goals in 352 appearances.
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His performances in the Premier League led to interest from Los Blancos and eventually a transfer to the Spanish giants, who made him their club-record signing in 2019.
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