Eden Hazard reveals what he really thought of his time at Real Madrid after dismal seven-goal record & fitness struggles

Hazard had a nightmare few years with Real Madrid, scoring just seven goals before leaving the club at the end of the 2022-23 season, a year before his contract was due to expire. He attracted criticism for being out of shape and was plagued with multiple injuries. Yet the former Belgium international claims that he did not regret joining Los Blancos as it was his dream to play under his idol Zinedine Zidane.

In an exclusive interview with The Standard, the ex-winger said: "It was my dream. I can tell you it was my dream even if the story was not that good with injuries and this and that. When I look back, and you can see some pictures of me wearing the white Real Madrid shirt, it makes me proud."

A few months after leaving the Spanish club, the 33-year-old announced his retirement from professional football despite having offers from the Saudi Pro League and MLS.

When asked if he could have played for a little longer, the former Blues star said: "Good question. I think so, but I decided playing football was over because I had a lot of injuries, and I have no regrets."

He added: "I enjoy it a lot. I miss my football a bit, especially being with the lads in the dressing room, but I can do what I want now. I have kids and a family. I can go to Belgium to see my family, brothers and parents. I can do a lot of things."

The Belgian is set to return to Chelsea in June to compete in the Soccer Aid charity match at Stamford Bridge. The fixture, that's played annually, features a mixture of former England footballers, various celebrities and influencers and famous foreign players from the past.