Belgium star Eden Hazard announced his retirement from international soccer, days after the team crashed out of the World Cup in the group stage. The Real Madrid forward, 31, made the announcement on social media, saying “a page turns today”.
“Thank you for your unparalleled support,” he posted on Instagram. “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.”
Standard Bearer
Hazard, the anchor of Belgium's "golden generation", played in all three games at the on-going Qatar 2022, but did not score as Belgium beat Canada, lost to Morocco and had to settle for a goalless draw with Croatia to finish third in Group F.
The forward made his senior debut in 2008 and scored 33 times in 126 appearances. He guided Belgium to their best World Cup finish at the 2018 tournament in Russia, when they came third.
Belgium were stalked by rumours of in-fighting in Qatar and a number of the country's other stars including Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois have likely played their final World Cup matches.
In the aftermath of their exit, Belgium coach Roberto Martinez announced he was leaving his job.