César Azpilicueta, the former Chelsea captain who now plays for Sevilla, has announced he will hang up his boots at the end of the current season. The 36-year-old defender made the announcement on Friday.
Azpilicueta enjoyed a trophy-laden career, winning two Premier League titles and a Champions League during his time at Chelsea. He also earned 44 caps for Spain.
In a post on his X handle Azpilicueta said, “After so many years living my dream, I feel it’s time to start a new chapter in my life,” he wrote on social media. “I’m grateful for every moment: the wins, the tough losses, the challenges, and most of all, the people I’ve met and the friendships I’ve made along the way.”
His final professional match will be Sevilla’s away fixture against Celta Vigo on Saturday.
Azpilicueta began his career at Osasuna, then moved to Marseille before joining Chelsea in 2012. Originally a right-back, he became known for his versatility, also playing centrally or on the left flank.
After more than a decade at Stamford Bridge, where he was named club captain, he joined Atlético Madrid in 2023 and moved to Sevilla last summer.
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