Eden Hazard quits football at the age of 32

Eden Hazard retires from football at age 32 after a trophy-laden career with Chelsea and Real Madrid.

Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from football at the age of 32 following his inability to find a club after leaving Real Madrid. (Photo credit: Sky Sports)

Former Chelsea and Real Madrid playmaker Eden Hazard has retired from football with immediate effect at the age of 32.

After a 16-year career that recorded brilliant performances and a trophy-laden era at Chelsea has ended after he couldn’t get a club since leaving Real Madrid on a disappointing note and it once again reminds us of what one bad move can lead to.

"You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time," Hazard wrote in an Instagram post on Tuesday,

 

"After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer. I was able to realize my dream, I have played and had fun on many pitches around the world.

Hazard will be fondly remembered for his time at Chelsea where he won the Premier League title twice, and the Europa League and was named the PFA Player of the Year after a stellar season with the Stamford Bridge club.

Hazard won two league titles at Real Madrid but had an underwhelming career with Los Blancos despite the big-money move. He was released upon the expiry of his contract but the Champions League trophy he won would remain his biggest to date.

"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." Hazard was a big part of the Belgium stars that finished third at the 2018 World Cup but the generation would still be seen as a failed one.

"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," the post continued.

"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."