Former Chelsea star Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 32 following a horror spell at Real Madrid.
The former Belgium international joined Los Blancos for an initial transfer fee worth £88.3 million, with add-ons potentially rising to £150m.
However, he struggled with recurring injury problems and failed to replicate his previous form at Stamford Bridge, making him one of the most expensive flops in football history.
During his four-year stay at Santiago Bernabeu, Hazard bagged just seven goals and 12 assists in 72 appearances across all competitions.
After parting ways with the record European champions by mutual consent last summer, Hazard had offers from his native Belgium, Serie A and Major League Soccer.
However, the dazzling forward has decided to call time on his once-promising career, emphasising his desire to explore new experiences.
“You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time,” Hazard said on his Instagram.
“After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer. I was able to realise my dream, I have played and had fun on many pitches around the world.
“During my career, I was lucky to meet great managers, coaches and teammates – thank you to everyone for these great times, I will miss you all.
“Now is the time to enjoy my loved ones and have new experiences. See you off the field soon my friends.”
Hazard won seven major trophies with Madrid, including two La Liga titles, the Champions League and the Club World Cup.
He made 352 appearances for Chelsea during his trophy-laden seven-year career at Stamford Bridge, bagging 110 goals and 92 assists for the club.
Hazard also won several major trophies with Chelsea, including two Premier League titles, two Europa League and one FA Cup.