Chelsea and Real Madrid have reacted as their former player Eden Hazard announced his retirement from professional football.
Earlier report noted that Hazard, on Tuesday morning announced his retirement from football at the age of 32.
The Belgian said it was the right time for him to leave the game, adding that he wanted to focus on his loved ones.
Reacting, Real Madrid in a statement via its website wrote: “Following Eden Hazard’s announcement that he will retire from professional football, Real Madrid C. F. would like to express its gratitude and warmth to a player who signed for our club in 2019 and who, during the four seasons that he belonged to our team, won 8 trophies: 1 European Cup, 1 Club World Cup, 1 European Super Cup, 2 LaLiga titles, 1 Copa del Rey and 2 Spanish Super Cups.
“Real Madrid would like to wish Eden Hazard and his family all the best in this new chapter of his life.”
Similarly, Chelsea, in a statement via its website, wrote: “Eden Hazard, one of the greatest players in Chelsea history, has announced his retirement from football at the age of 32.
Hazard joined the Blues in the summer of 2012. He confirmed his arrival with a now-famous tweet: ‘I’m signing for the Champions League winner’.
“It didn’t take long for the Belgian to earn a place in the hearts of Chelsea supporters. His dazzling trickery, uninhibited dribbles, and penchant for the spectacular goal helped bring further silverware to Stamford Bridge.
“In seven memorable years at Chelsea, Hazard made 352 appearances, scored 110 goals, and was named the club’s Player of the Year on four occasions.
“Hazard departed for Real Madrid in the summer of 2019. Yet his place in Chelsea history – and the adulation would receive from supporters was long cemented. He would always be welcome back at Stamford Bridge.”
