Picture Credit: Twitter
Belgium men's football team captain Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from international football. The decision comes as a consequence of Belgium's early disappointing exit from the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar.
The Red Devils failed to make it to the knockout stage after finishing third in the group with Croatia, Morocco and Canada. Belgium only managed to win one game against the Canucks and suffered a 2-0 loss against Morocco. In the final group-stage game, Belgium needed a win to qualify but only managed a 0-0 draw against Croatia.
Hazard shared the news of his retirement on his Instagram account where he thanked all those who have supported him on this journey since 2008. The message said, "A page turns today... Thank you for your love Thank you for your unmatched support. Thanks for all the happiness shared since 2008. Decided to end my international career. The succession is ready. I will miss you guys... #onestensemble 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.... #onestensemble Today we turn a page. Thank you for your love. Thank you for your unmatched support. Thank you for all the joyous moments we've shared since 2008. Today I decided to put an end to my career as an international. The next generation is ready. I'm going to miss you guys so much... ", he added.
Hazard made his Belgium debut in 2008 at the age of 17 and went play 126 times in his 14-year career where he scored 33 goals. He made his debut against Luxembourg and became the eighth youngest player to do so. He was part of three World Cup teams and two European Championships. Hazard also captained the Red Devils 56 times.