Cesar Azpilicueta has called time on his Chelsea career, ending an 11-year stay at Stamford Bridge.
Azpilicueta, 33, who joins Atletico Madrid, was one of the Premier League’s best defenders and helped Chelsea win two Premier League titles.
His 13 major cup final appearances for the Blues is also a club record.
"I want to say every time you are part of this club you give your best. That’s how I learned to be part of Chelsea," Azpilicueta told the club's official website.
We are bidding an emotional farewell to a Chelsea great.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 6, 2023
Thank you for everything, @CesarAzpi. 💙 pic.twitter.com/wHDcALJX5m
"The demands are really high, the commitment to the club, to the fans, every single day, even in tough moments when maybe it’s easier to go down a different path.
"That’s the moment to show the personality, the soul of the club, all together, pushing in the same direction.
"I know Chelsea will be back where it should be."
Todd Boehly, Chelsea chairman, and Behdad Eghbali, co-controlling owner, paid their own tributes.
"Cesar leaves an everlasting mark at Chelsea, as a warrior, as a champion, and as a loyal Chelsea legend," they added.
"He has set the standards at the club for more than a decade and demonstrated to everyone what is required day in, day out, to achieve success.
"Coaches and team-mates past and present have trusted him to lead by example as captain. He has done so immaculately on and off the pitch, something for which we are grateful.
"For that and so much more, Cesar will always be welcomed back at Stamford Bridge."
See: Cesar Azpilicueta: The Chelsea player who won it all
Trophy-laden career
In addition to winning two league titles, Azpilicueta lifted the UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, two UEFA Europa Leagues, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup honours with Chelsea.
He made 349 Premier League appearances for the Blues, keeping 115 clean sheets. Azpilicueta also scored 10 goals and provided 35 assists for Chelsea.
