Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from international football following Belgium's World Cup group stage exit.
After Belgium’s dismal performance at the 2022 World Cup, captain Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from international football. His announcement comes only a few days after manager Roberto Martinez resigned after his contract expired.
The 31-year-old has opted against another qualification cycle ahead of the 2024 European Championships and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
After fourteen years at the helm of the game, he is now solely focused on giving his Real Madrid career fresh vitality.
“Today I turn a page. Thanks for your love,” Eden 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.”
Hazard was the standard-bearer of Belgium’s much-vaunted “golden generation”, which reached the semi-finals at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
The ageing team has failed to make it past the first round in Qatar, finishing third in Group F behind Morocco and Croatia.
The former Chelsea player has scored 33 goals in 126 international appearances for country Belgium, assisting a further 36 goals during that incredible run.
