Regarded as one of the best players in the world during his time at Chelsea, Eden Hazard used to torment defenders in the French Ligue 1 while playing for LOSC Lille. Hazard was brilliant with Lille, but the best year of his career came at Stamford Bridge.
In 2019, Spanish giants Real Madrid came calling for Hazard, offering a new adventure in Spain. However, it turned out to be a disappointing experience, despite winning numerous titles and trophies. Severe injuries and poor form prevented Hazard from regaining his old charm and individual brilliance in Madrid.
Rio Mavuba revealed fascinating Hazard story
In Hazard’s career, the player had various fascinating moments, but one of the most interesting ones occurred in his final game in France while playing for LOSC Lille in May 2012. The Belgian delivered a masterclass to bid farewell to the Lille fans, scoring a stunning hat-trick in just 30 minutes. He ultimately ended his time with 22 goals for the French side.
However, this wasn’t the entire story. Former teammate and LOSC Lille captain Rio Mavuba revealed, “We were certain to finish third, and we were facing Nancy the following day. It was Eden Hazard’s last match with Lille, and he wanted to organize something special.”
“We decided to go have a little drink. A little drink that dragged on somewhat. The following morning, Eden was still drunk. he spent the whole night drinking, and the next morning he was still drunk, later that night he scored 3 goals in 30 minutes.” Mavuba revealed further.
After a memorable hat-trick in his final game in France, Hazard flew to London to join Chelsea, where he earned the status of an elite player. During his time with the Blues, Hazard won Footballer of the Year, a couple of league titles, the league, and the FA Cup, along with two Europa League trophies. His next significant move was to Real Madrid.
Now free agent Hazard retired from International football in 2022
In 2022, at just the age of 31, the Belgium captain announced his early retirement from international football following a group-stage exit from the Qatar World Cup.
“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”, he wrote in an Instagram post.
After proving himself in two different leagues, the Belgian international pursued the Real Madrid dream, but it turned into a nightmare. Hazard won two La Liga titles, a Champions League, a Copa Del Rey, and a Club World Cup. quite a success in terms of trophies and medals.
He struggled as a forward, managing only 8 goals in 149 appearances over four seasons in the Spanish capital. These numbers are clearly well below his standards. This saga ultimately culminated in a contract termination following mutual agreement with the club.
Currently, Hazard is without a club, and there are rumors of him considering retirement from club football as well. It would be a sad end if it happens.
What went wrong for the Belgian star from being among the elites to now as a free agent on the verge of retirement?
