The dismal performance of Belgium’s national team in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar has led to Eden Hazard‘s announcement that he is leaving the team.
With just one goal scored in victories over Canada, Morocco, and Croatia, as well as a scoreless draw with Croatia, the Russia 2018 semifinalists were unable to go on from their group.
The “Golden Generation,” which Real Madrid forward Eden Hazard and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne led, once again came up short at a big tournament, and as a result, Hazard has opted to leave the international scene.
“A page turns today,” wrote the 31-year-old on Instagram, to accompany a photo of himself celebrating a goal for Belgium.
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“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 added.
After making his debut in 2008 against Luxembourg, Hazard went on to earn 126 caps and score 33 goals for Belgium.
He competed in three World Cups and two European Championships, making 56 matches while wearing the captain’s armband.
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left a loveheart and a teary emoji in the comments section of Michy Batshuayi’s article, where he referred to Hazard as “famous.”
He was lauded as a “legend” by his Real Madrid colleague Vinicius Jr., and former Los Blancos left-back Marcelo selected the word “idol” because his former club Chelsea referred to him as “one of the all-time Belgian greats.”
Following Belgium’s draw with Croatia and elimination from Qatar 2022, manager Robert Martinez abruptly announced his resignation. Hazard’s statement follows Martinez’s hasty exit.
Hazard has struggled since arriving from Chelsea in a transaction worth an estimated £150 million ($182 million) in 2019, and after a difficult time in Spain due to injuries, he may depart Real Madrid next summer or for nothing in 2024 when his contract expires.
