César Azpilicueta has announced his retirement from professional football after an impressive 20-season career.
In an emotional letter, the 36-year-old reflected on his journey, which began in the streets of Pamplona and took him through Osasuna, Marseille, Chelsea, Atlético Madrid, and most recently Sevilla.
He wrote: “Today, I want to share with you that this season will be my last as a professional footballer. After so many years living my dream, I feel it’s time to start a new chapter in my life.”
Azpilicueta admitted the decision was difficult despite having time to prepare. “…Even though I have been preparing myself for this moment, I found it hard to write this letter. After 20 seasons, so many people have played an important role in my career.”
He expressed deep gratitude to teammates, coaches, staff, fans, and his family for their unwavering support, while cherishing the trophies won and the lifelong friendships forged along the way.
“When I first kicked a ball as a child in Pamplona with my schoolmates, I never imagined the amazing journey ahead,” he continued. “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.
“To my teammates, coaches, and every staff member at all the clubs I’ve been lucky to be part of, thank you for helping me grow as a person and a player every day. Wearing the shirts of CA Osasuna, Olympique Marseille, Chelsea FC, Atlético de Madrid, Sevilla FC, and representing my country at the biggest stages has been a true privilege.”
Over his career, Azpilicueta made 781 senior club appearances, including 508 during his eleven years with Chelsea. He also earned 44 caps for Spain. The versatile defender scored 18 career goals in total — 17 of them during his time at Chelsea — and netted once for Spain at UEFA Euro 2020.
He also provided 57 career assists, with 56 coming during his time in England and one during the 2022 FIFA World Cup for Spain.
Azpilicueta lifted 12 major senior trophies, the bulk of them with Chelsea, where he became the first player in club history to win every major honour available: two Premier League titles, two UEFA Europa Leagues, one UEFA Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup, one FIFA Club World Cup, one FA Cup, and one League Cup.
Before joining Chelsea, he had already won four major honours with Marseille: two successive Coupe de la Ligue titles and two Trophée des Champions.
