Eden Hazard didn't hesitate to poke fun at himself on Sunday. The retired footballer did so at the opening of a training field at his former club OSC Lille, which was named after him.
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Eden Hazard, the Belgian football icon, playfully embraced his reputation for a lackadaisical approach to physical conditioning during the unveiling of a training field named after him.
Known for his mesmerizing skill on the ball rather than his zeal for rigorous fitness regimens, Hazard quipped to the attending press, "I have little to say, because it's Eden Hazard's field: no fitness, no running. Just playing football with the ball. That's all." This light-hearted comment underscored the player's self-awareness about his own career narrative, often highlighted by his incredible talent with the football at his feet rather than his time in the gym.
In an encounter that could have been a high-pressure moment before a Canal+ broadcast of the match between Lille and Stade Rennes, Hazard displayed his characteristic humor. He had a slip of the tongue that inadvertently reminded fans of his less celebrated tenure at Real Madrid, saying, "Cool, right? At least I can tell my kids that I'm a hero in Madrid. Um... I mean Lille, not Madrid." This humorous gaffe was a nod to the complex feelings surrounding his career, especially the challenges he faced during his time in Spain.
Hazard's career has been illustrious, marked by significant achievements and high expectations. After rising to prominence with Lille in France, where his skillful play and critical contributions were instrumental in securing Ligue 1 titles, he moved to Chelsea in the English Premier League. At Chelsea, Hazard's star continued to rise as he became one of the league's standout performers, helping the club to multiple league titles and domestic cup victories. His performances in England earned him a high-profile move to Real Madrid, a transfer that was met with much fanfare and expectation.
However, Hazard's time at Real Madrid didn't live up to the high expectations set by his previous successes. Plagued by injuries and unable to consistently display the form that made him one of the world's most feared attackers, Hazard found it difficult to make a significant impact in La Liga. Over his tenure with Madrid, he scored only four goals in 54 league appearances, a stark contrast to his prolific form in both France and England. This period was challenging for Hazard, as he grappled with both his form and fitness, often finding himself sidelined or out of favor.
In October, Hazard announced his retirement from professional football, closing the chapter on a career filled with dazzling highs and notable lows. Despite the challenges he faced, especially in the latter stages of his career, Hazard's impact on the game, particularly during his time with Lille and Chelsea, remains undisputed. His playful comments at the training field unveiling and the accidental reference to Madrid over Lille reflect a player who is at peace with his career, ready to celebrate his achievements while acknowledging the moments that didn't go as planned.
