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.
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“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.
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