What Happened to Eden Hazard? Why did Eden Hazard Leave Real Madrid?
by Aishwarya R | Updated Aug 20, 2023
Who is Eden Hazard?
Eden Hazard is a highly regarded Belgian professional footballer known for his versatility in playing as a winger or attacking midfielder. As of the latest information available, he is currently a free agent after his departure from Real Madrid. Hazard is widely recognized for his exceptional skills, including creativity, dribbling, passing, and vision, and is often considered one of the standout players of his generation in the world of football.
Hazard's career began with Lille in the French Ligue 1 in 2007 when he was just 16 years old. He quickly rose to prominence under the management of Rudi Garcia and earned various accolades, such as the Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year award, becoming the first non-French player to win it. His performances also helped secure a league and cup double in the 2010–11 season, earning him the title of Ligue 1 Player of the Year, making him the youngest player to receive this honor.
In 2012, Hazard made a significant move to English club Chelsea, where he achieved numerous collective honors, including Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a Football League Cup, and UEFA Europa League titles. During his time at Chelsea, he solidified his status as one of the world's top players, winning prestigious awards like the FWA Footballer of the Year and the PFA Players' Player of the Year. He was also included in the 2018 FIFA FIFPRO Men's World 11.
Hazard's career took another notable turn in the summer of 2019 when he joined Real Madrid in a high-profile transfer worth €146 million. Unfortunately, his time at Real Madrid was marred by injury struggles and subpar performances, which limited his playing time and ultimately led to his departure from the club in 2023.
On the international stage, Hazard has represented Belgium with distinction, earning over 126 caps. He made his senior debut for the national team in 2008 at the age of 17. Hazard played a pivotal role in Belgium's success in various major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championships. He captained the Belgian national team, leading them to a historic third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup, where he received the Silver Ball as the tournament's second-best player. During his tenure as captain, Belgium also topped the FIFA men's ranking, marking a significant achievement for European teams in international football.
What Happened to Eden Hazard?
As of August 2023, Eden Hazard's career has been plagued by a series of injuries and fitness concerns since his move to Real Madrid in 2019. Hazard suffered an ankle injury in August 2023. This was the same ankle that he had previously broken while at Chelsea. At first, the injury was diagnosed as mere bruising, but it was later revealed to be a more severe fracture. This injury put him on the sidelines for an extended period.
Even before the ankle injury, Hazard's time at Real Madrid had been marked by fitness problems. He had a hamstring injury on the eve of the 2019-20 La Liga season, which delayed his debut for the club. Prior to this, concerns were raised about his fitness during the pre-season, with reports suggesting that he reported for training overweight. This indicated a lack of commitment to staying in top physical condition.
Hazard's performances for Real Madrid were far from the level he displayed in the Premier League while playing for Chelsea. Despite becoming a regular in the lineup, he struggled to recapture his previous form. In November, he openly admitted to being less focused on his fitness during vacations, which likely contributed to his struggles on the field. After pledging to improve his game, Hazard continued to be plagued by injuries, particularly over the Christmas period. These recurring injuries disrupted his ability to consistently contribute to the team.
: By the end of the 2019-20 season, Hazard had recorded only one goal and seven assists in 22 appearances. This was a far cry from the expectations that accompanied his signing as the replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo. Due to his struggles and the disappointment of his performances, Hazard was even linked with a potential return to Chelsea, the club he left to join Real Madrid.
Eden Hazard's time at Real Madrid has been marked by a combination of persistent injuries, fitness concerns, and a failure to reach the high standards he set for himself during his time in the Premier League. His move to Real Madrid, which was initially met with great excitement, has not lived up to expectations, leaving fans and observers wondering if he can ever fully recapture his former glory.
Why did Eden Hazard Leave Real Madrid?
Eden Hazard's departure from Real Madrid was the result of a combination of factors that ultimately led to a mutual agreement to terminate his contract. One of the primary reasons for Hazard's departure was his persistent injury struggles during his time at Real Madrid. As mentioned earlier, he suffered multiple injuries, including a significant ankle injury in August 2023. These injuries severely limited his playing time and prevented him from consistently contributing to the team.
Even when fit, Hazard struggled to replicate the outstanding form he displayed at Chelsea. His performances were far below the expectations that accompanied his signing as Real Madrid's most expensive acquisition. The decline in his form and impact on the pitch was a significant concern for the club. It's crucial to note that Hazard's departure was a result of a mutual agreement between the player and the club. Real Madrid and Hazard likely recognized that the partnership was not working as expected, and both parties agreed that it was in their best interests to part ways.
Hazard's contract with Real Madrid was reportedly a lucrative one, and his struggles on the pitch made it challenging for the club to justify the significant investment. By agreeing to terminate his contract a year early, both Hazard and Real Madrid could potentially free up financial resources for the club to pursue other players or address their squad needs. Real Madrid may have decided to undergo a squad overhaul or shift in their playing style, which might not have aligned with Hazard's strengths and attributes. This could have contributed to the decision to part ways with the player.
Eden Hazard's departure from Real Madrid was the result of a combination of factors, including his recurring injuries, decline in performance, mutual agreement with the club, financial considerations, and potentially a change in the club's strategic direction. Despite initial high hopes, his four-year spell at the club did not meet the expectations, and both parties ultimately decided it was best to part ways.
Where is Eden Hazard Going Now?
Eden Hazard's departure from Real Madrid has created a sense of intrigue within the footballing world. As of the most recent information available, Hazard finds himself in the unique position of being a free agent. While his name has been linked to Chelsea, the club where he previously enjoyed immense success, no official confirmation has been made regarding his next destination. This uncertainty has left fans and football enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipating news of the next step in Hazard's illustrious career.
In the aftermath of his Real Madrid chapter, Hazard's career trajectory remains veiled in ambiguity. Despite boasting a remarkable track record of accomplishments, including his time with Chelsea, the specific club where he will choose to continue his footballing journey remains undisclosed. It is a narrative that has captured the attention of pundits, enthusiasts, and fans alike, all of whom are poised for the official announcements that will shed light on the next chapter in the career of the Belgian international. Until then, the world of football remains captivated by the enigma of Eden Hazard's future in the sport.
Eden Hazard Career in Real Madrid
Eden Hazard's career at Real Madrid, spanning from 2019 to 2023, was marked by a mix of promise, injuries, and ultimately disappointment. Here's a breakdown of his time at the club:
Arrival as a Record Signing (2019)
Hazard's move to Real Madrid in June 2019 was highly anticipated. He arrived from Chelsea for a reported fee of €100 million, which could potentially rise to €146.1 million with additional fees. This made him the most expensive player in Real Madrid's history, surpassing the previous record held by Gareth Bale.
Injury-Plagued Debut Season (2019-2020)
Hazard's debut season at Real Madrid was marred by fitness struggles. He arrived at the training camp out of shape and was unable to make an immediate impact. While he did score goals and contribute with assists, a significant ankle injury in November 2019 sidelined him for an extended period. He missed several crucial matches, including El Clásico and Copa del Rey games, but did manage to make 16 league appearances as Real Madrid went on to win the 2019-20 La Liga title.
Mixed Performances in 2020-2021
In the 2020-21 season, Hazard faced competition from players like Vinícius Júnior, which limited his appearances in Carlo Ancelotti's starting eleven. He also encountered minor injuries and health issues, including gastroenteritis. While he scored important goals, such as the Copa del Rey winner against Elche, his overall impact was inconsistent.
Champions League Success (2021)
Despite his struggles, Hazard was part of the Real Madrid squad that clinched the UEFA Champions League title in May 2021, although he remained an unused substitute in the final against Liverpool.
Mutual Termination of Contract (2023)
Hazard's Real Madrid journey came to an end in June 2023. The club and the player mutually agreed to terminate his contract after four years. During his tenure, Hazard scored just 7 goals and provided 12 assists in 76 appearances across all competitions. This was seen by many as a disappointment, considering the high expectations that accompanied his record-breaking transfer.
Eden Hazard's career at Real Madrid was marked by moments of promise and glimpses of his talent, but it was ultimately overshadowed by persistent injury woes and inconsistent performances. His departure in 2023 marked the end of a chapter that didn't quite live up to the immense expectations that came with his arrival as one of the club's most expensive signings.
Eden Hazard Family
Eden Hazard hails from a football-oriented family, and his upbringing played a significant role in shaping his career. Eden Hazard's parents, Carine and Thierry Hazard, both had football in their backgrounds. His father, Thierry Hazard, was a footballer who spent much of his career at the semi-professional level with La Louvière in the Belgian Second Division. He primarily played as a defensive midfielder. Eden's mother, Carine, was also involved in football and played as a striker in the Belgian Women's First Division. Remarkably, she stopped playing when she was three months pregnant with Eden. After their football careers, both parents became sports teachers. Thierry eventually retired from teaching in 2009 to dedicate more time to his children.
Eden Hazard is the oldest among four siblings. His three younger brothers are also involved in football. Notably, Thorgan Hazard, one of his younger brothers, joined him at Chelsea in 2012. The other two younger brothers are named Kylian and Ethan. The Hazard family provided a nurturing and supportive environment for their children to excel in football, ensuring they had the resources and opportunities to develop their skills.
Eden Hazard's upbringing was closely tied to football. The family lived in close proximity to a football training ground, with their home located just a few meters away. This proximity allowed the Hazard brothers to easily access the training pitch, where they honed and developed their footballing abilities. Eden Hazard has often cited the influence of his family and the football-rich environment he grew up in as instrumental in his development as a footballer.
During his formative years, Eden Hazard's idol was the renowned French midfielder, Zinedine Zidane. He spent hours watching Zidane's performances on television and online, drawing inspiration from the legendary player's skills and style of play. Eden Hazard's family background, with football-loving parents and talented footballer brothers, played a significant role in shaping his early life and influencing his passion for the sport.
Eden Hazard Marital Life
Eden Hazard's personal life is characterized by a long-standing and loving relationship with Natacha Van Honacker, his wife, and their four children. Natacha Van Honacker and Eden Hazard have been in a committed relationship for over a decade, showcasing a deep bond and enduring love. Natacha, who is known for her privacy and modesty, prefers to stay away from the spotlight despite being the wife of the famous Real Madrid player. She is not the typical footballer's wife seeking attention and rarely accompanies her husband to red carpet events or public appearances.
Eden Hazard and Natacha Van Honacker are the proud parents of four children. Their children's names are Yannis, Leo, Santi, and Samy Hazard. Family appears to be of utmost importance to Eden Hazard, and he often shares moments from his family life on social media, offering glimpses into their close-knit and loving household.
Natacha Van Honacker, born in 1992, is a Belgian national, much like her husband Eden Hazard. Their long-standing relationship began during their high school years, a connection that has remained strong throughout their journey. Natacha's preference for a private life allows her to provide essential support to her husband without seeking the limelight.
Eden Hazard's wife, Natacha Van Honacker, and their four children form the core of his personal life. Natacha's choice to maintain a low profile reflects her commitment to supporting her husband and family, away from the public eye. Their enduring love story and the importance of family in Eden Hazard's life are central aspects of his personal narrative.
What Happened to Eden Hazard - FAQs
Eden Hazard's departure from Real Madrid was primarily due to a combination of persistent injuries and inconsistent performances during his time at the club. These factors, along with the mutual agreement between Hazard and the club, led to the termination of his contract in June 2023.
Eden Hazard had not yet signed with a new club after leaving Real Madrid. It's advisable to check the latest news for updates on his current club status.
Injuries significantly impacted Eden Hazard's career at Real Madrid. He suffered multiple injuries during his tenure, which limited his playing time and hindered his ability to consistently contribute to the team's success.
Eden Hazard's performance at Real Madrid did not fully meet the high expectations that accompanied his transfer from Chelsea. Injuries and inconsistent form prevented him from replicating the success he had achieved in the Premier League.
Eden Hazard's legacy at Real Madrid is a mixed one. While he won La Liga and a UEFA Champions League title during his time at the club, injuries and performance inconsistencies led to questions about his impact. Ultimately, his Real Madrid tenure is remembered for falling short of the lofty expectations set upon his arrival.