Eden Hazard has announced his international retirement in the wake of Belgium’s group stage exit from the World Cup in Qatar.
The 31-year-old revealed the decision on his social media account less than a week after his side were eliminated following a goalless draw with Croatia.
Hazard, who made his Belgium debut as a 17-year-old in 2008, wrote: “A page turns today… 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”.
The Real Madrid winger earned 126 international caps, scoring 33 goals and captaining his country 56 times.
However, he played in a minor role during the World Cup campaign, coming on for the final three minutes in the match against the Croatians.
What a journey it has been. Congratulations Capi. You’ll be missed! ♥️ pic.twitter.com/kXTA0pSs5S
Advertisement— Kevin De Bruyne (@KevinDeBruyne) December 7, 2022
Hazard made 245 appearances for Chelsea between 2012 and 2019, helping the Stamford Bridge club to two Premier League titles and two Europa League wins.
Belgium team-mate Kevin De Bruyne tweeted: “What a journey it has been. Congratulations Capi. You’ll be missed!”
