A few years after quitting serious club football, Hazard now officially retires from the national team
Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 07.12.22. | 15:20
No offence, but that's how things stand
Let's be straightforward - Eden Hazard was among the world's best players for years. At least, until that Real Madrid move in 2019. Since then, the Belgium star has struggled to recreate some of that earlier magic and football fans have almost forgotten about his existence. And he's only 31.
But now, he has announced his retirement from international football.
Days after Belgium's group stage elimination in Qatar, Hazard has called time on international duty after 14 years.
"Today, I turn a page. Thanks for your love," Hazard wrote on Instagram.
"Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all the joyful moments we have shared since 2008."
"Today, I decided to put an end to my career as an international. The next generation is ready. I'm going to miss you so much."
Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws reports that Hazard discussed the intention of retiring from the national team with his teammates in the immediate aftermath of their final group match against Croatia.
Six days later and Hazard has not changed his mind.
He made his Belgium debut as a 17-year-old phenomenon, coming on against Luxembourg on November 19, 2008.
Calling time on his Belgium career after Qatar, the ex-Chelsea attacker has gone on to win 126 international caps, scoring 33 goals and adding 36 assists.
Hazard wore the captain's armband 56 times for his country.
