A lot of the headlines today are bound to be dominated by the England national team squad that Thomas Tuchel is going to announce. It is already drawing a lot of criticism from all over the country as key players like Cole Palmer of [Chelsea](https://readchelsea.com/2026/05/22/confirmed-fabrizio-romano-bad-news-chelsea/), Phil Foden of Manchester City, Trent Alexander-Arnold of Real Madrid and several others look set to be left at home.
But amid all this, there is some more important news for Chelsea supporters. Club legend and Champions League-winning captain, Cesar Azpilicueta, has announced that this will be his last season and he is set to retire from the game.
Azpilicueta spent over a decade playing for Chelsea. Of course, his career reached its peak that night in 2021 as he captained the club to Champions League glory against Man City. Incidentally, Tuchel was the winning manager on that night.
Azpilicueta posted an emotional message on his social media channels, as he confirmed his decision to step away from the game after this season. He [wrote](https://x.com/CesarAzpi/status/2057728390010953832):
> Dear football,
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> 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.
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> Being honest, even though I have been preparing myself for this moment, I found it hard to write this letter. After 20 seasons, many people have played an important role in my career.
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> When I first kicked a ball as a child in Pamplona with my schoolmates, I never imagined the amazing journey ahead. 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. Every moment has meant so much to me.
Of course, Azpi, as he was fondly known to the Chelsea fans during his incredible run at Stamford Bridge, has left a message for the supporters as well. He wrote:
> To the fans: your passion and support inspired me to give my best every day. Your belief in me, especially during tough times, made the good moments even better. I hope you saw a player who always gave everything for your colours, with pride and heart.
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> To my family: you have always been by my side and cheered me on through hard times, your love and support mean everything to me. I hope you feel proud. I could not have achieved any of this without you on this journey.
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> Football has given me so much: it has taught me values like teamwork, sacrifice, humility, and respect. It has granted me the opportunity to explore new countries, new cultures, and new languages. My heart is full of gratitude and memories I will carry with me into whatever comes next.
>
> With love, César
We can only wish him the best in his journey in the game and beyond, following his retirement. He is truly one of the all-time greats of Chelsea Football Club. Someone who showed that you can achieve anything in the game, with perseverance and hard work.
When signed in the summer of 2012, alongside the likes of Eden Hazard and Oscar, Azpilicueta was the kind of name that got lost in the shuffle. He is not someone who was expected to have too big of an impact.
Being a squad player was viewed as his ceiling by many. And early on, it had looked like that is what he was going to be as well.
Over time, he went on to play his way into the team though. It was under Jose Mourinho that he first became an integral part of the team and an undroppable. And he would never look back after that, whether it was playing as a left-back, right-back or as part of a three-man backline. He did it all for Chelsea and captained the club to the highest peak possible.
What a career it was and what a privilege it was to watch a true professional like him week in, week out. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for everything, Dave.