Eden Hazard retires from professional football
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Eden Hazard had a spell to forget at Real Madrid (IMAGO)

FOOTBALL Eden Hazard retires from professional football

Mark Kinyanjui 13:10 - 10.10.2023

The former Chelsea hero has decided to call it quits after years of suffering from injury issues since Joining Real Madrid.

Former Chelsea and Real Madrid winger Eden Hazard has called time on his career at the highest level.

Hazard, who wowed Chelsea fans in his seven-year spell at Stamford Bridge with his magic feet that injected fear into the hearts of many opposition right backs, decided to retire as he felt it was the right time to.

"You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time," Hazard said in a statement.

"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 thanks to 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."

Hazard retires after a disappointing four-year spell at Madrid where he failed to live up to his lofty price tag. The Belgian had moved after starring for Chelsea in the Premier League, winning two titles with the Blues and scoring 110 goals in 352 appearances.