Farewell to Eden Hazard: Real Madrid Announces Termination of Contract

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By Martin Graham | 4th Jun 2023

Real Madrid has officially announced the impending departure of Eden Hazard, marking the conclusion of a challenging chapter for the Belgian winger. Joining the club in 2019 as their record-breaking signing, Hazard’s four-year tenure in LaLiga has been plagued by a series of hurdles since his transition from Chelsea. Despite clinching prestigious titles, including the Champions League and two LaLiga championships, Hazard has grappled with persistent injuries and struggled to find his rhythm at the renowned Santiago Bernabeu.

The 2022-23 season proved to be an arduous one for Hazard, with scarce opportunities to showcase his abilities on the field, amounting to a mere 392 minutes of playtime. Since December 2021, completing a full 90 minutes for the team has eluded him, significantly impacting both his performances for Real Madrid and the national team. The challenges persisted during Belgium’s disappointing campaign in the World Cup held in Qatar, leading Hazard to announce his retirement from international football after the tournament.

Real Madrid Extends Gratitude to Hazard and Wishes Him Success

Real Madrid has expressed sincere appreciation for Eden Hazard’s contributions during his tenure at the club and extended their heartfelt wishes to him and his family as they embark on their new ventures. Despite the challenges Hazard encountered during his time in Madrid, the club recognized his role in the team’s triumphant moments, particularly his involvement in securing major honors.

Hazard’s transfer from Chelsea to Real Madrid shattered the club’s previous record fee, as he arrived with an initial amount of £88.5 million ($110 million) before add-ons. Furthermore, his weekly salary of £400,000 positioned him as one of the highest earners within the team. With Hazard’s departure, Real Madrid will now have substantial resources freed up on their wage bill, enabling potential pursuits of new signings, particularly in the forward position.

Real Madrid Gears Up for Squad Restructuring Under Ancelotti

Real Madrid’s esteemed head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, acknowledged the imminent transformations within the squad, with several contracts set to expire. He confirmed that a significant overhaul is in the works to ensure the team remains competitive in the upcoming season. Ancelotti dismissed any speculations surrounding the departure of forward Karim Benzema, emphasizing his indispensable role within the team and reaffirming the player’s unwavering commitment to the club.

In addition to Hazard’s impending exit, Real Madrid has also confirmed the departures of attacking midfielder Marco Asensio and striker Mariano Díaz. These collective changes underscore Real Madrid’s ambition to revitalize the squad and construct a fresh and formidable team capable of challenging at the highest echelons of football.

As the curtains draw close on the 2022-23 season, Real Madrid’s loyal fanbase eagerly awaits the club’s forthcoming moves in the transfer market, as they strive to reinforce their squad and reclaim their dominant stature in both Spanish and European football.