The former Belgian international received a hero's welcome on his return Lille this weekend, the club where he began his career in Ligue 1 Uber Eats.
The legendary former Belgian international paid a visit to Lille this weekend to help inaugurate a training pitch named in his honour, before receiving a hero's welcome before LOSC faced Rennes on Sunday.
Hazard visited the club's training ground to help unveil a new training pitch in his name, at the club he began his career in 2007 and played 194 times. The former Real Madrid man scored 53 goals and registered 50 assists before leaving for Premier League club Chelsea in 2012, leaving Lille after winning one Ligue 1 title and a Coupe de France for the club.
'Only playing football and breaking ankles'
LOSC pulled out all the stops to honour their most influential former player, including eco-cups, burgers, and limited edition memorabilia. Lille shared footage of the unveiling on social media over the weekend, and during the event, Hazard spoke about the club's tribute to their former star. "I only have one thing to say. This is the Eden Hazard pitch. So no gym, no running. Only playing football and breaking ankles."
Following the pitch unveiling, Hazard was present to see his former side's Ligue 1 Uber Eats clash against Rennes on Sunday afternoon. Les Dogues recovered from a 2-0 deficit to draw against the Breton side thanks to a late brace from Jonathan David in the 84th and 92nd minutes.
