Gabby Agbonlahor tells Eden Hazard to retire and calls him 'one of the biggest flops in Real Madrid's history.'

Eden Hazard has been told to retire by former Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor, who has labelled the Belgian winger "one of the biggest flops" in Real Madrid's history.

The 32-year-old Belgium international joined Los Blancos from Chelsea for a record £88.5 million in 2019 but struggled to pick up first-team minutes throughout his time at the Spanish club.

After making just 10 appearances in all competitions last season, Hazard was released by Real Madrid at the end of his contract in June.

A number of clubs have since expressed an interest in signing the former Lille forward, including MLS outfit Inter Miami, who are trying to convince the player to join Lionel Messi, according to Relevo.

But this week, outspoken pundit Gabby Agbonlahor has suggested that Hazard should hang up his boots for good.

Speaking on talkSPORT this week, the former England international made some stinging comments about Hazard and his spell at the Bernabeu.

"I would retire if I'm Eden Hazard," he said. "I feel like you're probably going to go down as one of the biggest flops of Real Madrid's history.

"You know like what happened there, I don't think anyone will ever be able to explain it."

Agbonlahor added: "Yes he had his injury problems, but was it a bit of no desire at the club as well? If you're a club now, with these injury problems, who's going to sign him?

"What sporting director and chief executive are going to sign Hazard? Only if you offer him a pay-as-you-play."

Last month, Eden Hazard played down retirement rumours before claiming he had been 'resting for three years' whilst at Real Madrid.

Image credit: Getty Images

After being linked with a move to Belgium side Racing White Daring de Molenbeek (RWDM), who secured promotion this season, he hit back at 'nonsense' regarding his future.

Hazard also claimed his body is still capable of playing at the highest level

"It is true that, in the last few days, I have read a lot about myself. And a lot of nonsense," he said.

When asked about rumours linking him with a switch to RWDM to play alongside his younger brother Kylian, he replied: "I don’t know if it’s stupid, we’ll see.

"I know I’m not giving the answers that are expected but it’s because, honestly, I still don’t have them.

"Having said that, I can assure you that I am still capable of being a professional footballer, my body can handle it. Also, I’ve been resting for three years..."

He added: "Honestly, I still don’t know. After these three complicated years, I just want to spend time with my family, go on holiday like everyone else."

Topics: Eden Hazard, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours

Jack Kenmare

Senior Journalist at SPORTbible with a passion for long-form journalism. Almost 10 years’ experience across online and print.

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