Real Madrid have announced that Eden Hazard will be released after four years at the club this summer.
The former Belgium international has a year left on his contract but both parties have decided to go their separate ways.
Hazard was initially keen to see out his contract against the club’s will.
Madrid have been looking for a way to let go of the 32-year-old since 2021, but no clubs were willing to buy him.
Hazard is Los Blancos’ club-record signing and highest-paid player, but injuries and lack of form have limited his chances of impressing.
It remains to be seen where the former Chelsea star will move to next, but retirement is an option, reports The Athletic.
However, that decision has not yet been made. With Saudi Arabia attracting top players, Hazard could be tempted to move to the Middle East.
Having insisted on remaining with Madrid a few months ago, his decision to leave could have stemmed from a better offer elsewhere.
Saudi Pro League clubs plan to sign up to 50 players from Europe’s top five leagues this summer, and Hazard may emerge as a target.
He has played just ten games across all competitions this term.
The attacker has played 76 games since joining Madrid from Chelsea in 2019, bagging seven goals and 12 assists.
Hazard has won two La Liga titles, one Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup, one Spanish Super Cup and one Copa del Rey with the club.
The former Lille star has struggled to live up to the hype despite the talent he displayed in the Premier League.
Injuries prevented him from reaching his full potential at Madrid, but he has himself to blame for his struggles after failing to look after himself properly.
