Former Belgian international Eden Hazard has taken on a new role off the pitch. The 35-year-old, who enjoyed a stellar career with clubs like Lille, Chelsea, and Real Madrid, has become an investor and ambassador for Opportunity Players, a Belgian-based professional network for athletes and sports specialists.
The platform, launched in 2024 by entrepreneur Christel Cherain, aims to provide visibility for athletes at all levels, helping them connect with opportunities that match their ambitions. It functions as a specialized social network, akin to a sports-focused LinkedIn, where only content related to athletics and physical activity is permitted.
Hazard emphasized the platform's commitment to a positive environment. "There is a lot of negativity on social media. Here, there is zero tolerance: no racism, sexism, or homophobia. It's about respect and kindness," he stated. This ethos is central to the platform's mission of creating a safe and supportive community for its users.
He is not the only high-profile footballer involved. Axel Witsel, currently with Girona FC, has also transitioned from an ambassador to an investor in the network. Other notable figures associated with the project include former footballers Laurent Ciman and Nacer Chadli, as well as former tennis player Dominique Monami.
Opportunity Players, headquartered in Liège, is open to the entire sports ecosystem—from players and coaches to physiotherapists, nutritionists, academies, and universities. The service is available to individuals aged 16 and older, with parents able to register younger children. Subscription plans range from 30 to 110 euros per year.
The network reports having already attracted 40,000 users and has expanded its reach into North America, China, and other European countries. Plans are underway to open new branches in Latin America and Morocco in the coming year, signaling significant growth ambitions.
To fuel this expansion, the company has recruited an executive from the teams behind Facebook and LinkedIn. Their goal is to secure two million euros in funding and reach one million users by 2027. For Hazard, who has also recently invested in a padel complex near his home in Braine-le-Comte, this venture represents a unique opportunity. "It's unique. It didn't exist. We created it," he remarked.
Based on reporting from Fútbol // marca.