Why Eden Hazard Didn’t Join Lionel Messi in MLS or Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Pro League as Ex-Chelsea & Real Madrid Forward Explains Shock Retirement at 32 Years of Age

Eden Hazard, the Belgian football sensation who garnered immense popularity during his stints with Chelsea and Real Madrid, recently announced his unexpected retirement from professional football at the age of 32. This surprising decision has left many fans pondering why Hazard didn’t opt for alternative paths like joining Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer (MLS) or Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind Hazard’s retirement and explore why he chose not to continue his career alongside these prominent football icons.

The Enigma of Eden Hazard’s Early Retirement

Eden Hazard’s retirement announcement took the footballing world by storm, as it seemed to come prematurely for a player of his caliber. After all, Hazard had showcased his exceptional skills, dazzling dribbles, and remarkable goal-scoring ability throughout his successful career. The news of his retirement left fans and pundits perplexed, wondering what led to this puzzling decision.

The Physical Toll and Persistent Injuries

One crucial factor contributing to Hazard’s early retirement lies in his persistent injury struggles. Over the past few seasons, the Belgian forward has endured a series of unfortunate injuries that have significantly hampered his performance. From ankle fractures to muscle strains, Hazard has faced a multitude of setbacks, preventing him from displaying his true potential on the pitch.

The Mental Burden and Loss of Motivation

Apart from physical ailments, Hazard has also struggled with the mental toll that comes with being a professional athlete. The constant pressure, high expectations, and scrutiny from fans and media can take a toll on any player, affecting their mental well-being and enthusiasm for the game. These factors may have contributed to Hazard’s loss of motivation and ultimately influenced his decision to retire early.

Choosing a Different Path

While Hazard’s retirement may have come as a shock, his decision not to join Messi in MLS or Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League is not entirely surprising. Each player has their own unique aspirations, and Hazard’s circumstances and personal preferences likely played a significant role in his choice.

Staying Close to Home and Family

One possible reason for Hazard’s decision is his desire to stay close to his family and roots. Throughout his career, Hazard has consistently emphasized the importance of family and maintaining strong ties with his loved ones. Choosing to retire at this stage of his life might allow him to spend more time with his family and enjoy a sense of stability away from the intense footballing world.

Prioritizing Personal Well-being

Another crucial aspect that may have influenced Hazard’s decision is his focus on personal well-being. After years of battling injuries and enduring the physical demands of professional football, Hazard might have decided that it was time to prioritize his overall health and longevity. Opting for retirement instead of pursuing new challenges in unfamiliar leagues could provide him with the necessary time and space to recover and rejuvenate.

The Legacy of Eden Hazard

As Hazard bids farewell to professional football, his legacy as one of the most talented players of his generation remains intact. Despite the premature end to his career, his contributions to Chelsea, Real Madrid, and the Belgian national team will forever be remembered. From winning numerous domestic titles to lifting the prestigious UEFA Europa League trophy, Hazard’s impact on the footballing world cannot be overlooked.

Eden Hazard’s decision to retire at the age of 32 has left fans wondering why he didn’t opt to join Lionel Messi in MLS or Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League. While the exact reasons remain known only to Hazard himself, factors such as persistent injuries and the mental burden of being a professional athlete likely played a significant role. Moreover, the desire to prioritize personal well-being and spend more time with family may have influenced his choice. As Hazard embarks on a new chapter in his life, his remarkable contributions to football will forever be etched in the memories of fans worldwide.