Azpilicueta says goodbye to football after a career full of success
This Saturday in Vigo, César Azpilicueta will bring the curtain down on a career defined by commitment, determination, and a constant pursuit of new challenges.
More than 800 matches and 12 titles later, the young boy from Pamplona who made his debut for CA Osasuna as a teenager in February 2007 will play the final match of his professional career with the feeling of having achieved far more than he once dreamed of.
Two decades at the highest level stand behind an impeccable journey built on consistency, professionalism, and leadership. Among all his achievements, the UEFA Champions League title won with Chelsea FC in 2021 stands out, lifting the trophy as captain of the London club.
Azpilicueta also leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the Premier League, where he became one of the few outfield players in history to play every single minute of a title-winning campaign. His consistency and performances earned him a place in Chelsea’s All-Time Best XI.
By then, he had already won trophies with Olympique de Marseille and with Spain’s youth national teams, while also earning more than 40 caps for the senior national team and playing in three FIFA World Cups.
Numbers for the history books
LaLiga debut: 08/04/2007 – Real Madrid vs Osasuna
Spain senior debut: 06/02/2013 – Uruguay vs Spain
Sixth player with the most appearances in Chelsea history
Seven consecutive years (268 matches) without missing a squad call-up at Chelsea
Fifth player in history to win the Premier League playing every minute of the season
103 appearances for Spain across senior and youth national teams
Ballon d’Or nominee in 2021
First Spanish captain to lift both the Champions League and Europa League with a foreign club
European outfield player with the most appearances between 2013 and 2019
César Azpilicueta says goodbye
Dear football,
Today I want to share that this season will be the last of my career as a professional footballer. After so many years living my dream, I feel the time has come to begin a new chapter.
To be honest, even though I tried to prepare myself for this moment, writing this letter has not been easy. After twenty seasons as a professional, so many people have played an important role throughout my journey.
As a child in Pamplona, kicking a ball around with my school friends, I could never have imagined the incredible journey that awaited me. I am grateful for every moment: the victories, the difficult defeats, the challenges, and above all, the people I have met and the friendships I have made.
To my teammates, coaches, and every member of the staff at all the clubs I have been fortunate enough to represent: thank you for helping me grow every day, both as a player and as a person. Wearing the shirts of CA Osasuna, Olympique de Marseille, Chelsea FC, Atlético de Madrid, and Sevilla FC, and representing my country on the biggest stages, has been a true privilege. Every moment has meant so much to me.
To the fans: your passion and support inspired me to give my very best every single day. Your belief in me, especially during the difficult moments, made the good times even more special. I hope you saw a player who always gave everything for your colors, with pride and heart.
To my family, who have always been by my side and supported me through the toughest moments: your love and support mean everything to me. I hope you feel proud. None of this would have been possible without you beside me throughout this journey.
Football has taught me many values: teamwork, sacrifice, humility, and respect. It has allowed me to discover new countries, cultures, and languages. My heart is full of gratitude and memories that I will carry with me into the next challenges ahead.
With love,
César