Hazard announces Belgium retirement after ‘golden generation’ World Cup flop

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    Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from international football after Belgium failed to make it out of the group stages at the World Cup.

    Roberto Martinez's side were grouped alongside Croatia, Morocco, and Canada in Group F. But while it was a very tricky group to navigate on paper, it was one Belgium were expected to break out of, considering the talent in their arsenal.

    However, after scraping past Canada, Belgium were soundly beaten 2-0 by Morocco and could only muster a 0-0 draw against Croatia. And with the inquest into their World Cup disaster only just beginning, the former Chelsea star revealed he will no longer play for his country.

    Read More: German media celebrate 'justice' by savagely trolling Spain after World Cup exit

    In a statement released on social media, Hazard wrote: “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….”

    Hazard retires with 126 international caps for Belgium and an impressive tally of 33 goals and 36 assists. After making his international debut in 2008, he went on to represent Belgium in three World Cups, two European Championships.

    He played all but one match in the Belgian side that finished third in the 2018 World Cup and scored a fine goal in the 2-0 victory over England which secured the bronze medal. He also retires as the third most capped player in his country's history.

    His retirement from international football also follows the resignation of Belgium manager Roberto Martinez, who departed his role moments after his side were knocked out.

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    • World Cup
    • Real Madrid FC
    • Chelsea FC

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