Eden Hazard Biography: The Rise and Fall of a Belgian Prodigy

Eden Michael Hazard was born on January 7, 1991, in La Louvière, Belgium. He grew up in Braine-le-Comte, a small town with a deep passion for football. His parents, Thierry and Carine, were both footballers. Thierry played semi-professionally for La Louvière, while Carine played as a striker in the Belgian Women’s First Division.

Eden is the eldest of four brothers, all of whom pursued careers in football. Thorgan Hazard, the most successful of his siblings, currently plays for Borussia Dortmund. The family lived close to a football training ground, further fueling Eden’s love for the sport. He started playing at a young age, joining his first club, Royal Stade Brainois, at just four years old.

Youth Career and Breakthrough

Hazard’s exceptional talent was evident from a young age. At eight, he moved to Tubize, where he was spotted by scouts from Lille OSC, a prominent French club. He joined Lille’s youth academy in 2005, marking a significant step in his career.

Lille OSC (2005-2012)

After two years in the youth academy, Hazard made his professional debut for Lille at the age of 16. He quickly established himself as a key player, known for his dribbling skills, pace, and creativity. His performances earned him the Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year award in 2009 and 2010, making him the first player to win the award twice.

In the 2010-11 season, Hazard played a pivotal role in Lille’s historic league and cup double. His outstanding contributions led to him being named the Ligue 1 Player of the Year, further solidifying his status as one of the most promising young talents in Europe.

The Chelsea Era (2012-2019)

Hazard’s impressive performances at Lille attracted interest from top clubs across Europe. In June 2012, he signed for Chelsea in a deal worth £32 million. His arrival at Stamford Bridge marked the beginning of a highly successful period for both the player and the club.

Premier League Dominance

Hazard quickly adapted to the Premier League, becoming a fan favorite with his dazzling displays on the pitch. He helped Chelsea win the UEFA Europa League in his first season and played a crucial role in their Premier League triumph in 2015. His individual brilliance was recognized with the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award.

He continued to shine for Chelsea, winning another Premier League title in 2017 and the FA Cup in 2018. Hazard’s ability to create scoring opportunities and score spectacular goals made him a nightmare for defenders.

Real Madrid and Injury Struggles (2019-Present)

In the summer of 2019, Hazard fulfilled a childhood dream by signing for Real Madrid in a deal that could rise to €150 million. The transfer made him one of the most expensive players in history.

A Dream Turned Sour

Unfortunately, Hazard’s time at Real Madrid has been marred by injuries. A series of ankle and muscular problems have limited his playing time and prevented him from reaching his full potential. Despite showing glimpses of his brilliance, he has struggled to replicate the form that made him a superstar at Chelsea.

International Career

Eden Hazard has been a key figure in the Belgian national team for over a decade. He made his debut in 2008 at the age of 17 and has since represented his country in numerous international tournaments.

Captain Fantastic

Hazard captained Belgium to a third-place finish at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, their best-ever result in the tournament. He has been praised for his leadership qualities and his ability to inspire his teammates.

Playing Style

Hazard is known for his exceptional dribbling skills, close ball control, and ability to accelerate past defenders. He is predominantly a left-winger but can also play as an attacking midfielder or a second striker. His creativity, vision, and passing range make him a valuable asset in creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Personal Life

Eden Hazard is married to Natacha Van Honacker. The couple has four sons: Yannis, Leo, Samy, and Santi. Hazard is known for his humble and down-to-earth personality, despite his fame and success.

Awards and Recognition

AwardYear
Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year2009, 2010
Ligue 1 Player of the Year2011
UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year2010, 2011, 2012
PFA Players’ Player of the Year2015
Premier League Player of the Season2015
FWA Footballer of the Year2015
Chelsea Player of the Year2014, 2015, 2017, 2019
UEFA Europa League Squad of the Season2013, 2019
FIFA FIFPro World112015, 2018, 2019

Conclusion

Eden Hazard’s journey is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. From his humble beginnings in Belgium to his rise as a global football icon, Hazard has captivated fans with his mesmerizing skills and infectious enthusiasm. Despite facing setbacks in recent years due to injuries, his legacy as one of the most gifted players of his generation remains secure. His impact on the game, both at the club and international level, will be remembered for years to come.

Whether he rediscovers his peak form at Real Madrid or embarks on a new chapter in his career, Eden Hazard’s story continues to inspire aspiring footballers around the world. His dedication to the sport, coupled with his natural talent and unwavering determination, serves as a shining example of what can be achieved through passion and hard work.

FAQs

Is Eden Hazard still playing?

Yes, Eden Hazard is still an active professional footballer. He currently plays for Real Madrid.

Why is Eden Hazard not playing?

Eden Hazard has struggled with injuries throughout his time at Real Madrid. These recurring injuries have significantly limited his playing time.

What is Eden Hazard’s net worth?

Eden Hazard’s net worth is estimated to be around $100 million.

When did Eden Hazard retire from the Belgian national team?

Eden Hazard announced his retirement from international football in December 2022, following Belgium’s disappointing performance at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

What is Eden Hazard’s salary?

While his exact salary is not publicly disclosed, it is estimated that Eden Hazard earns around €20 million per year at Real Madrid.

Leave a Comment