Real Madrid and Eden Hazard have reached an agreement to terminate the player’s contract ahead of schedule.
The Belgian winger, who joined Madrid from Chelsea in 2019 for a staggering €100 million, has struggled with persistent injuries throughout his four seasons at the club.
This season, Hazard has made only six appearances in LaLiga, all as a substitute, without scoring any goals.
In an official statement released on Saturday, Real Madrid confirmed the news, stating, “Real Madrid C.F. and Eden Hazard have reached an agreement whereby the player will be released from the club as of June 30, 2023.”
During his time at Real Madrid, Hazard managed to secure eight trophies, including a European Cup, a Club World Cup, an European Super Cup, two league titles, one Copa del Rey, and two Spanish Super Cups.
Hazard’s injury troubles began in his debut season at Madrid, when he suffered an ankle fracture requiring surgery and the subsequent removal of a metal plate two years later.
As a result, he struggled to regain his form and fitness and faced stiff competition from emerging talent Vinicius Junior for the left-wing position.
In December, following Belgium’s exit from the group stage of the 2022 World Cup, Hazard announced his retirement from international football.
A month prior to his retirement, Hazard expressed remorse to Real Madrid supporters in an interview with Marca, acknowledging his underwhelming performance and offering an apology.
He also expressed his willingness to accept a transfer during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Real Madrid has conveyed its fondness for Hazard and extended well wishes to him and his family in their future endeavors.
