Bruno Fernandes sends classy message to Eden Hazard as Belgian announces retirement

Bruno Fernandes sent a classy message to Eden Hazard after the Belgian announced his retirement.

On Tuesday former Chelsea and Real Madrid forward Hazard announced his retirement from football at the age of 32.

Hazard is one of the greatest players in Premier League history, having won two league titles at Stamford Bridge before moving to Real in 2019.

However, in Spain, the player struggled with injuries, making just 76 appearances in four seasons at Real before leaving in the summer.

In an Instagram post, Hazard said: "You must listen to yourself and stay stop at the right time.

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

Among the many fans and players who expressed their appreciation for Hazard’s glittering career was United skipper Fernandes.

The Portugal international wrote on his Instagram story: “Thanks for all the good moments you gave the world of football.

“All the real fans of this beautiful sport enjoyed watching you.”

Chelsea signed Hazard for £32million from Lille in 2012, and he went on to make 352 appearances for the club, scoring 110 goals. In that time he won two Premier League titles, two Europa Leagues, the FA Cup and a League Cup.

In 2019 Hazard joined Real Madrid in a deal worth up to a club-record £130million, however his time at the Bernabeu was beset by injuries and poor form. He managed to score seven goals in his 76 appearances.

Hazard, the 2015 PFA Players' Player of the Year in 2015, added on his retirement: "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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