Eden Hazard, the former Chelsea star and Belgian international, has shared insights into his life after retiring from football, describing it as “ideal” in its current state. While he appears to be thoroughly enjoying his current circumstances, he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a potential return to the sport in the future.
Hazard’s most successful period as a footballer undoubtedly occurred during his seven-year tenure at Chelsea. At Stamford Bridge, he achieved significant success, including winning two Premier League titles and securing victories in the FA Cup and League Cup.
His individual brilliance was also evident, with accolades such as the PFA Player of the Year in 2015, following his previous recognition as the PFA Young Player of the Year a year earlier.
In a high-profile transfer move, Hazard departed Chelsea in 2019 to join Real Madrid in a club-record transfer. However, his time in the Spanish capital didn’t unfold as planned.
A series of injuries and ongoing fitness concerns severely limited his appearances in La Liga, and his role during the 2022/23 season was notably diminished.
Hazard’s impressive goal-scoring record at Chelsea, which included 110 goals, with nearly half of those coming in his final three seasons with the Blues, contrasts starkly with his time in Spain. During his Real Madrid tenure, he managed to score just seven goals while primarily playing a bit-part role in the team’s lineup.
Upon the expiration of his contract with Real Madrid during the summer, Hazard had the opportunity to secure a new club.
Surprisingly, he chose to decline this chance, despite receiving multiple offers. His official retirement, at the relatively young age of 32, was formally announced in October.
At the recent Ballon d’Or 2023 ceremony, Hazard presented the Kopa Trophy and was interviewed by Didier Drogba, the event’s host, regarding his retirement and future aspirations. During this candid conversation, Hazard expressed his deep satisfaction with his current family life and the pursuit of various interests outside the realm of football.
Notably, he emphasized that he does not miss playing football at this point. Yet, intriguingly, he did not entirely rule out the possibility of a return to the sport, suggesting that time would be the ultimate determinant of such a decision.
Hazard’s contentment with his retirement decision was evident as he conveyed his genuine happiness with the current state of his life. In particular, he emphasized his lack of enjoyment in training and playing football during his final professional stint.
While he continues to show interest in watching football on television, he’s also actively involved in various other activities beyond the football field.
It’s worth noting Hazard’s impactful role on the international stage, particularly during Belgium’s commendable third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup.
Hazard played a pivotal part in helping Belgium reach the semi-finals, narrowly missing the finals due to a close defeat to France. However, he contributed significantly with a goal in Belgium’s victory over England in the third-place play-off.
