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Former Chelsea star Eden Hazard has hung up his boots from professional football, having exited Real Madrid at the conclusion of the preceding season. Aged 32, Hazard made a grand move to Real Madrid in 2019 for a staggering £89m from Chelsea. However, his stint with the La Liga titans saw him feature in a mere 54 league matches.
During his iconic spell at Stamford Bridge, he clinched two Premier League crowns.
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"You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time," expressed Hazard, who's been without a club affiliation since his contract wrapped up this past June. "After 16 years and over 700 matches under my belt, I've chosen to call it a day on my journey as a professional footballer."
Hazard took a bow from international duty the previous December, post-Belgium's exit from the 2022 World Cup in its initial phase.
While with Real Madrid, his trophy cabinet expanded with a Champions League title, a Club World Cup, a European Super Cup, dual La Liga championships, a Copa del Rey, and two Spanish Super Cups. Yet, his Spanish saga is predominantly viewed as underwhelming, having netted a mere 7 times across 76 fixtures in all tournaments.
Initiating his professional journey with Lille in France, Hazard found the net 50 times in 149 outings, steering the team to a Ligue 1 and Coupe de France double in the 2010-11 season.
His transition to Chelsea in 2012, for a purported £32m, saw him etch his name as a club legend. Over his tenure, he recorded 110 goals in 352 matches, the pinnacle being his match-winning goal in the 2019 Europa League final against Arsenal, marking his swansong for the Blues.
"Throughout my journey, I've been privileged to cross paths with phenomenal managers, mentors, and fellow players. A heartfelt gratitude for the cherished moments, you'll be missed," Hazard shared on social media platforms.
He further extended his gratitude, mentioning, "My sincerest appreciation goes out to the clubs I've had the honour to represent: LOSC, Chelsea, and Real Madrid, and also to the RBFA for the privilege to don the Belgian colours."
He added, "A distinct nod to my kin, comrades, consultants, and all who've stood by me, both in peaks and troughs. And above all, immense love to my unwavering supporters who've cheered me on throughout my journey. As I step away from the limelight, I look forward to cherishing moments with my near ones and exploring new horizons. Until we meet again, off the turf."
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