Eden Hazard is enjoying a peaceful and contented retirement. Once regarded as one of the world’s finest footballers during his spell at Chelsea, where he won both the Premier League and the Europa League, his career took a different turn upon joining Real Madrid.

During his four seasons in Spain, Hazard became the most expensive signing in the club’s history but failed to meet expectations. Nonetheless, he added a LaLiga title and a Champions League medal to his résumé. His time at the Santiago Bernabéu proved challenging for both player and club, ultimately leading him to step away from professional football—a decision he discussed in detail on Zack Nani’s podcast.

“I left professional football because I no longer enjoyed everything that comes with it,” Hazard explained. “I loved the 90 minutes on the pitch, but not the rest—traveling, endless training sessions, dealing with the media.”

While many retired players turn to coaching, Hazard is in no rush. “Coaches today work harder than players, constantly at the computer with their staff. I’m 34, not 42 as some people think. If I decide to coach at 50, I’ll have time. For now, I can enjoy life, watch my children grow, and take things easy,” he said.

The Belgian forward also addressed the criticism he faced—particularly during his Madrid years—for not contributing enough defensively, a scrutiny now shared by players like Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé. Defending himself, Hazard admitted, “I’m one of those attacking players who sometimes neglect defensive duties. I’ve played with Karim Benzema, and he doesn’t always make every physical effort. Even Dembélé doesn’t do it all the time.”

He also spoke about former teammates Karim Benzema and Thibaut Courtois. “Courtois always rated players like Benzema and Modric above me—and rightly so. They’re legends. Karim was great from the first day we met. We talked, we played together. I think he was disappointed with how things ended for me, but our relationship remains strong. They were the ones who helped win the Champions League, while I contributed to the team spirit in the dressing room,” Hazard reflected.

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