Eden Hazard, who is just 31-year-old has announced he is stepping down from international football. The Real Madrid attacker captained Belgium at the ongoing World Cup in Qatar. Belgium were eliminated from the tournament in the group stages after a 1-0 win over Canada, a 2-0 loss to Morocco, and a 0-0 draw with Croatia.
Hazard has now followed manager Roberto Martinez out of the team following the team’s dismal World Cup performance. He retires with 33 goals in 126 appearances for the Red Devils since his debut in 2008.
“A page turns today… Thank you for your love. Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all this happiness shared since 2008. I have decided to put an end to my international career. The succession is ready. I will miss you,”
the former Chelsea star wrote on Instagram.
Centre-back Jan Vertonghen replied with some hands-up emojis, while midfielder Axel Witzel wrote:
“Thank you for everything my dear.”
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois posted a heart emoji and a crying face, while Real Madrid and Brazil attacker Vinicius Jr added “Legend” and a heart emoji.
Hazard made his international debut for Belgium against Luxembourg in November 2008, after being courted by France. Since then, he has been a regular, appearing in the 2014 World Cup, Euro 2016, the 2018 World Cup, and Euro 2020. He has been Belgium’s captain since 2015.
According to recent reports, Martinez’s decision to keep Hazard as captain caused friction in the squad. Many players reportedly felt that Hazard was underperforming and that he should be benched.
Martinez did bench Hazard for Belgium’s final Group F game against Croatia, but it was too late, with Belgium finishing third behind Croatia and Morocco.
Hazard’s farewell statement mentions “the succession,” with his retirement intended to give younger players a chance to shine ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
