Chelsea legend Marcel Desailly has weighed in on Eden Hazard's decision to retire from professional football at the relatively young age of 32, suggesting that while it may seem premature, Hazard had good reason to call it quits. Hazard, who shone brightly at Stamford Bridge before a disappointing stint with Real Madrid, announced his retirement in October 2023.
Desailly acknowledged that Hazard's retirement came earlier than many expected but emphasized the importance of a player's personal fulfillment and enjoyment of the game. "I always said that I would stop as soon as I didn't have fun on the field anymore," Hazard stated upon his retirement. "I didn't want to go and play somewhere for the money. I didn't enjoy training… And I wasn't playing anymore. The decision was simple".
Hazard's career trajectory saw him rise to global stardom at Chelsea, where he spent seven years, winning two Premier League titles, two Europa League titles, one FA Cup, and one League Cup. He was also voted Chelsea Player of the Year a record four times. His dazzling dribbling, creativity, and vision made him one of the most exciting players in the world. In 352 appearances for the Blues, Hazard scored 110 goals and provided 92 assists, solidifying his place as a club legend.
However, his dream move to Real Madrid in 2019 for a transfer fee of up to €150 million turned sour. Plagued by injuries, a lack of fitness, and subpar performances, Hazard struggled to find his form in Spain. He only managed 76 appearances and seven goals for Real Madrid before his contract was mutually terminated in June 2023.
Desailly alluded to the mental toll that a lack of playing time and enjoyment can take on a player. For Hazard, who had always emphasized the importance of enjoying the game, the situation at Real Madrid became untenable. "In life, you can't explain everything. I am at peace with myself. I'm happy. I have so many things to do outside of football that I was able to make a serene choice," Hazard explained.
While some coaches, like Luc Eymael, have suggested that Hazard's lack of commitment to training contributed to his decline, Hazard himself has been candid about his waning passion for the sport. He admitted that he didn't fit in at Real Madrid, a club he described as having a "swaggering" culture, and that he didn't enjoy their style of play.
Ultimately, Desailly respects Hazard's decision to prioritize his well-being and happiness over continuing a career that had lost its spark. Hazard's words echo this sentiment: "You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time. After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer".
Despite the disappointing end to his career, Hazard's legacy as a Chelsea icon remains secure. His return to Stamford Bridge for a Chelsea Legends match against Liverpool Legends is a testament to the affection he still holds for the club and its fans. The match, scheduled for this Saturday, will see Hazard reunite with former teammates and give fans a chance to celebrate his remarkable achievements in a Chelsea shirt.
