Real Madrid winger Eden Hazard has opened up on how a lack of club football convinced him to retire from Belgium duty.
Hazard’s time in Madrid has been dominated by injuries and poor form, with the former Chelsea playmaker a shadow of the talismanic figure, which Real Madrid paid €100m for in 2019.
Hazard has openly admitted his frustration at an absence of a first team role with Los Blancos, as Carlo Ancelotti has effectively removed him from first team duty.
The 32-year-old has not played a single minute of La Liga or Champions League action since his return from the World Cup, despite being fit.
Hazard opted to step away from his position as Belgium captain, following their exit from the 2022 World Cup, with ongoing speculation over his next career move.
“I couldn’t see myself not playing at Real Madrid, and then getting to the national team, and playing”, as per an interview with RTBF, reported via Diario AS.
“Not playing at Real, then joining the Red Devils and playing. I didn’t like that idea, especially as the new generation deserves to play.
“I will not return for Belgium, I’m 100% sure. I can’t see myself doing it. It’s never been in my head.
“I have many other things to do, such as spending more time with my children, with my family. I don’t see myself backing down on my decision on a whim.”
Hazard is set for crucial talks with the Real Madrid hierarchy this summer, with a year left on his contract in the Spanish capital, as the club remain determined to secure a fee for the 32-year-old, to avoid a Gareth Bale-style free transfer exit in 2024.
Princespark6
0
Come back to Chelsea since Pulisiç Aubemeyang and Ziyech are leaving. Even Mount is also leaving so you have space on the flank but u must cut your wages
Pepaimouy
0
RM should have offloaded Hazard long ago. He came to RM with a wrong mindset and it is this mindset which has let him down. He should try his luck somewhere else.
oladipulo
0
There’s nothing crucial, he should collect his money and leave. I doubt he’ll accept to cut salary. There’s no renewal for the old boi. And he’ll not accept to leave for Madrid to at least make up some money from hospital bills… useless swine.
Why do you feel the need to insult someone in such a vile manner? Did it make you feel better, I’m legit curious.
Donelosy
2
Hazard should see out his contract and go somewhere else and enjoy his life He did enough for me to always love this player
RM_y_nada_mas
0
There’s nothing crucial, he should collect his money and leave. I doubt he’ll accept to cut salary. There’s no renewal for the old boi. And he’ll not accept to leave for Madrid to at least make up some money from hospital bills… useless swine.
RM_y_nada_mas
1
Lies, he was still called up with his 🍔 in hand. His laziness to train, lack of professionalism and decline admits better options made him think fast. Same thought he should have had 2 years after his transfer and save his Belgium career. That no training but being picked in chelsea doesn’t happen in Madrid. That’s where the difference kicks in with Real Madrid and the rest. Be the greatest but if you lack passion you aren’t better than a hard working sub.