Chelsea icon Eden Hazard has been inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame, joining Manchester United legend Gary Neville as the second inductee for the class of 2025.

The Premier League made the announcement in a statement on Wednesday while highlighting the former Real Madrid player’s massive contribution to Chelsea’ success during his seven years stint at Stamford Bridge between 2012 to 2019.

“Eden Hazard has been inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame, becoming the 26th recipient of the highest individual honour awarded by the League,” the Premier League said in its statement.

Hazard joined Chelsea from French Ligue 1 side Lille during the 2012 summer transfer window. He went on to make 245 Premier League appearances for Chelsea, scoring 85 goals, 54 assists and helping the club to two league titles.

During his time in England, the now-retired Hazard also delighted the league with his flamboyant dribbling skills, which immediately placed him in the ‘Premier League greatest-ever’ debate among fans and critics.

Reacting to his induction, Hazard said: “I grew up playing football for fun, with my brothers in the back garden, but my dream was always to play at the highest level. It means a lot to join the Premier League Hall of Fame. I’m very proud to join this group of players and I think we could make a good squad. I just wanted to have fun on the pitch and entertain the fans who bought tickets or watched on TV. Being recognised in this way is special for me and my family. My parents were both footballers and now my children love the game too.”