The chips are starting to fall after Belgium’s disastrous World Cup campaign, where they exited the group stage without much fanfare. Now, on Wednesday, captain Eden Hazard announced that he will retire from international football at the age of 31.
“Today a page is turned… Thank you for your love. Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all this shared happiness since 2008. I have decided to put an end to my international career. “The follow-up is ready. I’m going to miss you…” Hazard wrote in an Instagram post.
This marks the end of a 14-year career with 126 caps and 33 goals, with Hazard becoming another high-profile name walking away from the Belgium team, after manager Roberto Martinez quit after that 0-0 draw with Croatia, which was the final nail . in the coffin for the Red Devils’ World Cup campaign.
He was once the anchor of Belgium’s Golden Generation who was tipped for great things, but unfortunately he was not up to the challenge, with his best international performance being 3rd at the 2018 World Cup.
Hazard had started two of Belgium’s games in this World Cup but was largely ineffective and was dropped to the bench for the 3rd and final game, only to appear as a substitute in the 87th minute.
He made his Belgian debut as a 17-year-old phenom, coming into action against Luxembourg on November 19, 2008.