Eden Hazard Announces Retirement: A Look Back at His Storied Football Career
Former Chelsea winger, Eden Hazard, has made the difficult decision to retire from football at the age of 32. This announcement comes after a career that saw him rise to prominence as one of the world's most talented footballers. Let us take a deep dive into Hazard's journey, from his early days at Lille to his time at Chelsea and Real Madrid, and reflect on the impact he had on the footballing world.
Eden Hazard's Rise to Stardom
Eden Hazard's illustrious football journey started with the French club Lille, where his exceptional talents were unveiled to the world. Even in his early days, it was evident that he possessed a gift for the beautiful game.
In the 2010-11 season, Hazard guided Lille to a historic domestic double. His dazzling skills, quick footwork, and ability to change the course of a match made him a highly sought-after talent. Since Opta analyzed Ligue 1 in 2006/07, Eden Hazard is the only player outside PSG to have been involved in at least 35 goals during a season, when he scored 20 goals and contributed to 16 assists with Lille in the 2011/12 season.
The Belgian won the Ligue 1 player of the season in back-to-back seasons in 2011 and 2012.
Glory Days at Chelsea
In 2012, Eden Hazard joined Chelsea for £32 million, marking the beginning of a mesmerizing Premier League journey. His arrival at Stamford Bridge was met with great anticipation, and he didn't disappoint.
During his time at Chelsea, Hazard played an instrumental role in the club's Premier League title triumphs. His performances were consistently outstanding, and his creative genius left defenders in awe. In recognition of his brilliance in the 2014/15 season, he was bestowed with the prestigious Premier League Player of the Season, PFA Players' Player of the Year and PFA Fans' Player of the Year award as he led Chelsea to their fourth Premier League title.
He is one of just four players in Premier League history to achieve 15+ goals and 15+ assists in a single season.
A Fond Farewell to Chelsea
Hazard's final moments in a Chelsea shirt were nothing short of magical. The crowning glory was his winning goal in the 2019 Europa League final against Arsenal along with the tournament's best player award, a moment that will forever be etched in his memory.
In total, Hazard scored 110 goals in 352 games for the Blues, winning two Premier League titles and one FA Cup and League cup each.
However, his contribution to the club extended beyond statistics. Hazard's charisma and connection with the Stamford Bridge faithful transcended beyond the pitch with Chelsea fans cherishing his time wearing the Blue shirt even after his departure.
The Real Madrid Challenge
In 2019, Hazard embarked on a high-profile dream move to Real Madrid, where great expectations awaited him. While his time in Spain saw him clinch several titles, including two La Liga titles, the Copa Del Rey and the prestigious Champions League trophy, it was marred by persistent injuries and moments of inconsistency.
His struggles for Real Madrid which saw him play just 76 times in four years and score only seven goals stood in stark contrast to the electrifying performances he had delivered for Chelsea, leading to mixed reviews about his time at the Bernabeu.
International Retirement
Prior to announcing his retirement from professional football, Hazard had already bid adieu to international football in December. This decision followed Belgium's unexpected exit from the 2022 World Cup during the group stage, marking the end of an era for the national team.
Hazard is Belgium's second-highest goalscorer and has been awarded with the Belgain Sportsman of the Year in 2018 as well as the Silver Ball in the 2018 FIFA World Cup where his heroics led his country to a third-place finish at the tournament.
Official Retirement
Having been without a club after being released by Real Madrid this summer, Hazard announced his retirement from the sport through an Instagram post.
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's Instagram Post.
With Eden Hazard's retirement, football bids farewell to an electrifying talent. While his time at Real Madrid may not have met the lofty expectations, his legacy at Chelsea and in the Premier League remains long lasting. As fans, we celebrate the memories and moments he shared with us, and we hope that his retirement brings him the contentment and fulfillment he deserves in the next chapter of his life.
Eden Hazard, you will always be remembered as a true footballing icon.