Eden Michael Walter Hazard, born on January 7, 1991, in La Louvière, Belgium, is a name that resonates with football enthusiasts worldwide. Widely regarded as one of the standout players of his generation, Hazard’s legacy in the Premier League is etched in history. Join us on a journey through the life and career of this footballing icon.
Eden Hazard’s Early Life and Education
Eden Hazard’s love for the game was nurtured in the heart of a footballing family. His parents, Carine and Thierry, both had their own remarkable journeys in the world of football. Thierry, a defensive midfielder, played semi-professionally with La Louvière in the Belgian Second Division. Carine, a striker in the Belgian Women’s First Division, temporarily paused her career when she was three months pregnant with Eden.
Growing up in Braine-le-Comte, Hazard was the eldest of four siblings, all of whom shared a passion for football. His brothers, Thorgan, Kylian, and Ethan, all showed promise on the pitch. The family’s home was strategically positioned near a training ground, providing the Hazard brothers with easy access to hone their skills.
Eden Hazard’s Career Ascent
Hazard’s football journey began at Royal Stade Brainois at the tender age of four, where he was hailed as a “gifted” player by his youth coach. After eight formative years, he moved to AFC Tubize. It was here that a Lille scout spotted Hazard during a local tournament and recommended him to the club.
In 2005, at just 16 years old, Hazard made the life-changing move to Lille, signing his first professional contract in May 2007. He swiftly gained recognition for his exceptional performances, earning awards and nominations. In 2012, Hazard embarked on a new chapter with Chelsea, where he made significant contributions and clinched numerous titles. His journey continued when he joined Real Madrid in 2019, marking a historic moment with a reported fee of €100 million.
A Legacy Beyond the Pitch
Hazard’s versatility as an attacker, coupled with his unmatched pace, technical prowess, and mesmerizing dribbling skills, set him apart. At Lille, he showcased his talents as a winger and central attacking midfielder, while at Chelsea, he excelled as a left midfielder, renowned for his precision in strikes.
In the 2014–15 season, Hazard’s meteoric rise reached its zenith, garnering multiple awards and accolades. His prowess extended to set pieces, where he displayed remarkable accuracy in taking penalties and free kicks.
The Man Behind the Legend
Beyond the spotlight, Eden Hazard is a devoted family man. He is married to Natacha Van Honacker, and together, they share the joys of parenthood. Following his retirement in June 2023, Hazard and his family have chosen to make Belgium their home.
FAQs:
Q1: What is Eden Hazard’s net worth? A: Eden Hazard boasts a net worth of approximately $55 million, a testament to his illustrious footballing career.
Q2: What were Hazard’s primary positions on the pitch? A: Hazard showcased his brilliance as both a winger and central attacking midfielder during his tenure at Lille, while at Chelsea, he excelled as a left midfielder.
Q3: Who were Eden Hazard’s footballing idols? A: Eden Hazard drew inspiration from the legendary French midfielder, Zinedine Zidane, dedicating hours to studying his style of play both on television and online.
Conclusion
Eden Hazard’s journey from a football-loving family in Belgium to becoming a global footballing sensation is nothing short of extraordinary. His legacy in the Premier League and beyond is etched in the annals of football history. As he embarks on a new chapter post-retirement, Hazard’s impact on the beautiful game will forever be celebrated.
