Belgium’s captain and Real Madrid’s winger, Eden Hazard, has announced his retirement from international football.
The 31-year-old made the announcement on his Instagram page on Wednesday, days after Belgium’s group stage elimination in Qatar.
He wrote, “Today I turn a page. Thanks for your love.
“Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all the joyful moments we have shared since 2008.
“Today I decided to put an end to my career as an international. The next generation is ready. I’m going to miss you so much.”
Hazard has called time on international duty after 14 years, as he now puts his sole focus into his Real Madrid career.
Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws reported that Hazard had discussed the intention of retiring from the national team with his team-mates in the immediate aftermath of their final group match against Croatia.
The attacking midfielder made his Belgium debut as a 17-year-old phenomenon, coming on against Luxembourg on November 19, 2008.
He has worn the Belgium captain’s armband 56 times for his country, gone on to win 126 international caps, scored 33 goals and 36 assists.
