Why Eden Hazard didn't join Lionel Messi in MLS or Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League, reveals ex-Chelsea and Real Madrid forward.
The former Belgium international startled football fans when he announced his retirement at the age of 32.
He had been released as a free agent by Real Madrid following four dismal seasons at the Santiago Bernabeu
And had decided to hang up his boots rather than join a new club.
There had been discussion about Hazard going to America or the Middle East, where there would be plenty of money and old faces.
After competing in a charity tournament with players like Didier Deschamps and Robert Pires, Hazard informed reporters about the rumors circulating around him: "I wouldn't play anywhere for money."
I still have my entire life to enjoy, away from the playing fields, at the age of thirty-two.Speaking more about his reasons for leaving Real Madrid
Hazard revealed that he had lost his passion for the game during a trying time there.
"It is never easy to make a decision like that, but I am not going to say that it was difficult," he said.
I've given it a lot of thought, and those who know me well and understand that I genuinely want to pursue other endeavors in life besides football, have supported me.
I had everything planned out when I left the national team, even if the previous season was difficult.