Cesar Azpilicueta, captain of Chelsea, has brought his remarkable 11-year tenure at the club to a close and joins Atletico Madrid
After an illustrious 11-year journey filled with trophies, Chelsea’s captain Cesar Azpilicueta has bid farewell to the club and signed a one-year contract with Atletico Madrid.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, the 33-year-old Spanish defender achieved remarkable success, clinching every major honor, including two Premier League titles and the prestigious Champions League trophy.
Azpilicueta, who still had one year remaining on his Chelsea contract, expressed his emotions about the departure, stating, “It is difficult to put into words how I feel; it has been an incredible experience.” In a heartfelt video shared by the club on social media, a teary-eyed Azpilicueta continued, “I feel like I have given my all. I love this club.”
When reflecting on the highlights of his career, he highlighted the unforgettable moment of lifting the Champions League trophy in Porto, which marked his first major title as captain. Azpilicueta also emphasized his deep connection to Chelsea, referring to it as his home, expressing hope to return in a different capacity someday.
Azpilicueta’s football journey began with his childhood club, Osasuna, before a two-year stint at Marseille. In August 2012, he completed a £6.5 million move to Chelsea, where he went on to make 508 appearances and score 17 goals as a full-back. In 2019, he succeeded Gary Cahill as the team’s captain.
Recognized as one of only six players to have triumphed in the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup, Azpilicueta also holds the club record for the most cup final appearances, with 13.
Having represented Spain 44 times, Cesar Azpilicueta remained a constant presence throughout a decade of managerial changes and shifts in ownership at Stamford Bridge. He secured the Premier League title under Jose Mourinho in 2015 and later with Antonio Conte in 2017. As the captain, he lifted the Champions League trophy in 2021, when Thomas Tuchel’s side defeated Manchester City in the final. Additionally, Azpilicueta won the Europa League twice in 2013 and 2019.
Although Azpilicueta was linked with a potential move to Barcelona, he chose to extend his Chelsea contract by two years in August 2022. However, in this summer of transition under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, he joins the list of senior players departing the club.
Other notable departures include Kai Havertz to Arsenal, Mateo Kovacic to Manchester City, and Mason Mount’s signing by Manchester United. Furthermore, goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, center-back Kalidou Koulibaly, and French defensive midfielder N’Golo Kante have also left to pursue opportunities in the Saudi Pro League.
Source – myjoyonline.com
