+18 | Play Responsibly | T&C's Apply | Commercial Content | Publishing Principles
Eden Hazard Real MadridGetty Images

MLS and Saudi Arabia rejected! Retired Chelsea and Real Madrid star Eden Hazard turned down lucrative approaches before deciding to hang up his boots

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Hazard announced retirement from football
  • Was offered deals in MLS and Saudi Pro League
  • Belgian not persuaded by proposals
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The Belgian attacker had been linked with moves to the United States and Middle East after leaving Real Madrid in the summer window.

    However, according to Fabrizio Romano, the 32-year-old was not persuaded by the proposals from both MLS and the Saudi Pro League as they pursued him over the past four months.

  • Advertisement
  • Eden Hazard Real Madrid 2022-23Getty

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Hazard announced on Tuesday that his playing days are over, saying that it was the "right time" to stop.

    "After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer," he said. "I was able to realise my dream, I have played and had fun on many pitches around the world."

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Hazard made over 620 appearances as he represented Lille, Chelsea and Real Madrid and won two Premier League, La Liga and Europa League titles as well as the Champions League, Club World Cup and Ligue 1 crowns over his glittering career.

    He also made 126 appearances for Belgium and helped them to a third-place finish in the 2018 World Cup.

  • Eden Hazard 2023Getty

    WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

    Hazard has not announced if he will become a coach now that his career has ended, instead saying: "Now is the time to enjoy my loved ones and have new experiences. See you off the field soon my friends."