Former Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta announces retirement

Cesar Azpilicueta decided to retire from professional football (Instagram/@cesarazpi).

JAKARTA - Former Chelsea defender and captain Cesar Azpilicueta has announced his retirement from football.

The 36-year-old started his career at Osasuna before moving to Marseille, where he won two French League Cups (Coupe de la Ligue) and one French Super Cup (Trophee des Champions).

Azpilicueta, who has 44 times defended the Spanish National Team, joined Chelsea in 2012 and recorded 508 appearances for the club during 11 years.

During his time at Stamford Bridge, the defender won two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, one League Cup, two Europa League titles, and led the team to the Champions League title in 2021.

Azpilicueta moved to Atletico Madrid in 2023 and spent two seasons there before joining Sevilla last summer, where he has made 16 appearances in LaLiga this season.

"To football. Today, I want to share with you that this season will be my last season as a professional football player."

"After years of living my dream. I feel it's time to start a new chapter in my life. Honestly, even though I've prepared for this moment, I find it difficult to write this letter. After 20 seasons, many people have played an important role in my career. "

"When I first kicked a ball as a kid in Pamplona with my schoolmates, I never imagined the incredible journey that lay ahead."

"I am grateful for every moment, victory, heavy defeat, challenge, and most importantly, the people I have met and the friendships I have made so far."

"To my teammates, coaches, and all the staff at all the clubs who were lucky enough to be a part of me, thank you for helping me grow as a person and a player every day."

"Wearing the uniforms of Osasuna, Marseille, Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, Sevilla, and representing my country on the biggest stage is a true honor. Every moment means a lot to me," Azpilicueta wrote in a post on X.