Jose Mourinho predicted Eden Hazard's early retirement eight years ago with stark warning

Jose Mourinho predicted Eden Hazard's early retirement eight years ago when the pair worked together at Chelsea.

On Tuesday, Hazard announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 32.

The former Belgium international had his Real Madrid contract terminated over the summer following his big-money move from Chelsea in 2019.

Hazard was unable to rediscover his previous form in La Liga, with his time at the Bernabeu hampered by a series of injuries.

The winger was rumoured with a return to the Premier League, with Crystal Palace thought to be keen on acquiring his services.

However, former Chelsea and Manchester United manager Mourinho predicted his downfall long before his retirement. You can listen to what he said below.

Speaking about the winger during his second spell at Chelsea, the Portuguese manager told reporters: "People [are] in love with football in this country; people must be in love with Eden Hazard.

"The way, match after match, he's being punished by opponents and he's not being protected by referees, maybe one day we don't have Eden Hazard.

"It's one, two, three, four, five, 10 aggressive fouls against him. They kick and kick and kick, and the kid resists.

"He's a very honest guy in the way he plays, but that's another problem."

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Confirming his retirement on social media, Hazard wrote on Tuesday: "You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time," he wrote on Instagram.

"After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, 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, will miss you all."

Hazard added: "I also want to thank the clubs I have played for: LOSC, Chelsea and Real Madrid; and thank the RBFA for my Belgian Selection.

"A special thank you to my family, my friends, my advisors and the people who have been close to me in good times and bad.

"Finally, a huge thank you to you, my fans, who have followed me for all these years and for your encouragement everywhere I have played.

"Now is the time to enjoy my loved ones and have new experiences. See you off the field soon my friends."

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