Belgium and Real Madrid playmaker Eden Hazard has retired from international football.

Hazard made the announcement via his social media where he reflected on his career and thanked fans for their support over the years.

“A page turns today… Thank you for your love Thank you for your unmatched support. Thanks for all the happiness shared since 2008. Decided to end my international career,” the Real Madrid player said on his Instagram before delivering a brief but reflective message on his departure.

“The succession is ready. I will miss you guys… #onestensemble A page turns today… Thank you for your love. Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all this happiness shared since 2008. I have decided to put an end to my international career.”

The now 31-year-old player made his international debut for the “Red devils” as a fresh-faced 17-year-old talent in 2008 against Luxembourg coming on as a substitute in the 67th minute which made him the eighth youngest in the country’s history.

His announcement comes on the heels of Belgium’s shock first-round exit of the ongoing 2022 Qatar World Cup after failing to get past the group stages. A precipitous fall from their third-place finish in 2018 more so entering the tournament as the number-one ranked team in the world.

The news is also the second casualty from the team’s underwhelming performance after Belgium manager Roberto Martinez stepped down on Thursday following their elimination.

Since Hazard’s £150m move to Real Madrid from Chelsea in 2019 he has struggled to repeat the scintillating quality he showcased in the EPL which made him one of the most sought-after players in Europe.

 Injuries and poor performances have seen him spend the vast majority of his spell in Madrid on the sidelines with a transfer very much likely in the near future.

Belgian striker Michy Batshuayi and Keeper keeper Simon Mignolet were one of the first to hail their former captain following his announcement

  “legendary” Batshuayi wrote on his Instagram page, while Mignolet added: “Thanks for all those amazing moments Eden.” Former club Chelsea also chimed in on the well wishes: “One of the

Hazard, earned 126 caps, for Belgium scoring 33 goals.