Eden Hazard announces retirement from professional football 

Eden Hazard announced his retirement from professional football on Tuesday., drawing curtains to a 16 year illustrious career. 

The 32 year old enjoyed successful spells with Lille and Chelsea before concluding his club career with a dismaying period at Real Madrid 

“You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time," Hazard confirmed his retirement  via an Instagram post.

“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."

Hazard expressed gratitude towards his three clubs- Lille, Chelsea and Real-as well as thanked the Belgian FA and national team in his statement 

"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."

The former Real Madrid man won five league titles in his distinguished career- two each with Chelsea and Los Blancos, and one with Lille. He bagged quite a few individual prizes, including the PFA Player of the year in 2014-15. 

Hazard was a vital cog in Belgium’s golden generation of players who came third at the 2018 World Cup, who lost to eventual winners France by the barest of margins in the semifinals.