Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from international football following Belgium’s World Cup exit.
The Belgium captain has decided to call time on his career with the national side following a disappointing tournament in Qatar, with Roberto Martinez’s side eliminated at the group stage despite entering the World Cup as FIFA’s number-two ranked nation.
“A page turns today…” Hazard wrote on Instagram.
“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.”
The 31-year-old made his international debut in 2008 and scored 33 goals in 126 appearances for the Red Devils.
Among a group of players dubbed Belgium’s ‘Golden Generation’, he led the side to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and received the Silver Ball award – awarded to the player adjudged the second-best at the World Cup – for his contribution to the campaign.
Belgium ended the World Cup third, their best-ever finish at the tournament, but have been unable to deliver a maiden major trophy.
Just three players have ever won more caps than Hazard, while only Romelu Lukaku (68) has scored more goals for the national side.
