Former Chelsea and Spain defender Marc Azpilicueta announces retirement.

Former Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta, who is currently playing for Sevilla, announced on Friday that he will retire at the end of the season.

The 36‑year‑old defender, who secured two Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy with Chelsea, earned 44 caps for Spain.

“After so many years living my dream, I feel it’s time to start a new chapter in my life,” Azpilicueta wrote 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.”

His final appearance will come in Sevilla’s match against Celta Vigo on Saturday.

Azpilicueta began his career with Osasuna before moving to Marseille in France and then to Chelsea in 2012.

Initially a right‑back, he also played centrally and on the left, demonstrating considerable versatility.

After more than a decade at Stamford Bridge, where he served as club captain, he joined Atlético Madrid in 2023 and transferred to Sevilla last summer.

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