Eden Hazard surprised fans by returning to football just eight months after announcing his retirement. The Chelsea legend made his comeback with Royale Union Tubize-Braine, a third-tier Belgian team, in a friendly match against top-tier giants Anderlecht.
Wearing the captain’s armband for Tubize, Hazard showcased his enduring skills on the field. Despite Tubize suffering a 4-1 defeat, Hazard’s performance stood out, particularly when he scored in the 94th minute. His goal, reminiscent of his glory days at Chelsea, demonstrated his ability to navigate through Anderlecht’s defense and calmly place the ball into the far corner of the net.
At 33 years old, Hazard’s impact on the game was evident, contrasting with the Belgian national team’s lackluster performance in a 0-0 draw against Ukraine on the same day. While Hazard has participated in recent charity matches like Soccer Aid, where he impressed for the World XI team despite a 6-3 loss to England, reports suggest his appearance with Tubize was a one-off event rather than a return to professional football.
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Although Hazard still clearly enjoys playing and retains his skills, he seems content with his decision to step away from the pressures of professional competition.
Eden Hazard is widely celebrated as one of the Premier League’s greatest players of all time. During his tenure at Chelsea, he clinched two Premier League titles, two Europa League trophies, and an FA Cup. Joining from Lille in 2012, he netted 110 goals across 352 appearances for the Blues, showcasing dazzling performances, scoring incredible goals, and earning numerous individual accolades.
In 2019, Hazard made a high-profile move to Real Madrid for £130 million. Despite encountering injury setbacks during his time in Spain, he managed 76 appearances and scored seven goals before departing the club last summer. Despite these challenges, Hazard’s talent and lasting impact on football remain indisputable.
Hazard’s return to the pitch, albeit brief, was a delight for football enthusiasts. It demonstrated his enduring passion for the game despite stepping away from professional football. His standout performance against Anderlecht served as a nostalgic reminder of his remarkable career and the joy he brought to fans worldwide.
His cameo appearance with Royale Union Tubize-Braine was a pleasant surprise, showcasing that his skill and enthusiasm for football are still vibrant. Although it was a one-time event, it evoked cherished memories for fans and underscored why Hazard is revered as one of the Premier League’s finest. As he continues to relish his retirement, moments like these serve as poignant reminders of the magic Hazard brought to the pitch throughout his illustrious journey.