Eden Hazard retires from International football at 31

The Belgian decided after an underwhelming World Cup campaign.

Real Madrid and Belgium superstar, Eden Hazard has announced he has retired from international football following Belgium’s premature exit from the World Cup in Qatar.

His decision to call time on his international career was taken after the nation’s elimination from the tournament following a goalless draw with Croatia in Group F. Belgium finished third behind Morocco and Croatia in the group, both of which have advanced to the quarter-finals of the tournament.

Hazard announced his decision to retire on his official Instagram page, which reads: “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….”

During his international career, Hazard made 126 appearances for his country between 2008 and 2022, scoring 33 goals.

Head coach, Roberto Martinez also annouced he was leaving his post as the country’s manager following their exit from the tournament. It marks the beginning of the end for the country’s highly regarded “Golden Generation.”