Former Chelsea captain and Spain international defender César Azpilicueta has announced that he will retire from professional football at the conclusion of the current season.
The 36-year-old, who is currently with Sevilla FC, confirmed the decision on Friday, ending a career decorated with major trophies, including two Premier League titles and UEFA Champions League success during his time at Chelsea.
“After so many years living my dream, I feel it’s time to start a new chapter in my life,” Azpilicueta wrote in a statement shared 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.”
Azpilicueta won 44 caps for Spain and became known as one of the dependable and adaptable defenders of his era, taking on roles at right-back, centre-back, and left-back across the course of his career.
He launched his professional journey with CA Osasuna, before moving to Olympique de Marseille and ultimately joining Chelsea in 2012. Over the next decade and more, he established himself as a key figure at Stamford Bridge and rose to captain the club.
After leaving Chelsea, he signed with Atlético Madrid in 2023, before switching to Sevilla last summer.
His final match is expected to arrive on Saturday, with Sevilla scheduled to host Celta Vigo in the last fixture of the season.
