César Azpilicueta
From TheChels.info - The Chelsea Football Club Wiki
| César Azpilicueta | |
| |
| Full Name | César Azpilicueta Tanco |
| Date of Birth | 28 August 1989 |
| Place of Birth | Pamplona, Spain |
| Position | Right back Left back |
| Chelsea career | 2012 – 2023 |
| Debut | 25 September 2012 |
| Games (goals) | 508 (17) |
| Other clubs | Osasuna Marseille Atlético Madrid |
César Azpilicueta Tanco (born 28 August 1989 in Pamplona, Navarre) is a Spanish international full back who joined Chelsea from Marseille in August 2012. Signed as a right back, he is equally comfortable at left back, where he featured regularly after being converted to the role by José Mourinho during the 2013-14 season. He is considered as one of the best wing-backs in Chelsea history.
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Before Chelsea
Osasuna
A native of Pamplona, Azpilicueta joined local club Osasuna as a youngster. He broke into the first team at a young age, making his debut at Real Madrid on 8 April 2007 at the age of just 18. Previously a midfielder, the following season he was handed a chance to establish himself in the first team due to injuries and made the right back position his own, making 29 appearances in the league. He retained his place over the next two seasons, and having also established himself in the Spanish Under-21 side he began to attract interest from across Europe.
Marseille
Azpilicueta joined French side Olympique de Marseille in June 2010 on a four-year contract, for a reported fee of EUR7m; possibly rising to EUR9.5m dependent on appearances. His first season in the south of France was halted in November when the Spaniard ruptured the anterior cruciate ligaments in is left knee, an injury which sidelined him for six months. He re-established himself in the side upon his return to full fitness, making 41 appearances during the 2011-12 season. With José Bosingwa having left on a free transfer in the summer of 2012, Chelsea were in the market for a new right back, and had been linked with a move for Azpilicueta in the media for several months. [1] On 24 August it was confirmed that the right back had signed for Chelsea for a reported initial fee of £6.5m. [2]
Chelsea career
2012–13 Season
Largely featuring as an unused substitute at the start of the 2012-13 season, Azpilicueta made his debut for Chelsea one month after signing, in a 6-0 defeat of Wolverhampton Wanderers in a League Cup tie in late September. By the time Roberto Di Matteo was relieved of his duties in late November he was generally starting ahead of Branislav Ivanović, and he continued to be preferred as starting right back by interim manager Rafael Benítez over the course of the campaign, making 48 appearances in what was a generally impressive first season in English football. His debut season was capped with a UEFA Europa League-winners medal, although he conceded a penalty in the final; the third he had conceded in the competition.
2013–14 Season
With José Mourinho returning to Stamford Bridge ahead of the 2013-14 season, the Spanish international had a third manager to win over less than a year after joining the club. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Mourinho preferred the powerful Ivanović at right back, with Azpilicueta's involvement mainly limited to substitute appearances in the early part of the season. His opportunity to regain a first team place came in the autumn, albeit in the unlikely role of left back with Ashley Cole out injured. Having waited patiently for his chance, Azpilicueta's performances were good enough to keep Cole out of the side upon his return from injury, [3] and in March Mourinho described Azpilicueta as "unbeatable" following a 4-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur. [4] Azpilicueta's consistent performances over the course of the campaign in what was a new position were also recognised by his peers; the full-back voted Players' Player of the Season by his team-mates at the end of the season.
2014–15 Season
Under José Mourinho, Azpilicueta remained one of Chelsea’s most reliable performers as the team won both the Premier League and League Cup. Although naturally a right-back, he continued to operate as the starting left-back, having displaced Ashley Cole the season prior. His defensive solidity and clean tackling were hallmarks of his game, and he formed a cohesive unit alongside Gary Cahill, John Terry, and Branislav Ivanović. While he rarely contributed directly in attack, his positioning and discipline were crucial in a title-winning defence that conceded the fewest goals in the league. Azpilicueta made 40 appearances in all competitions, providing understated consistency in one of Chelsea’s most dominant seasons of the modern era.
2015–16 Season
In a season marked by managerial upheaval and underperformance, Azpilicueta was one of the few players to maintain a steady level. José Mourinho was sacked midway through the campaign, with Guus Hiddink stepping in as interim manager. Despite the chaos around him, Azpilicueta remained virtually ever-present, playing both full-back positions depending on team needs. His work rate, composure under pressure, and quiet leadership stood out in a squad that finished 10th in the Premier League—Chelsea’s lowest placing in two decades. He made 49 appearances and scored two goals against West Bromwich Albion (both away and home). His reliability during this turbulent campaign further endeared him to fans and coaching staff alike.
2016–17 Season
Antonio Conte’s arrival brought a tactical revolution, shifting the team to a 3–4–3 system after early struggles. Azpilicueta transitioned seamlessly into a new role as the right-sided centre-back in a back three. Though slightly undersized for a central defender, his reading of the game, passing ability, and stamina made him perfect for the role. He played every minute of the Premier League campaign as Chelsea surged to the title with a then-record 30 wins. His chemistry with Victor Moses on the right flank and his ability to cover wide areas were instrumental. Azpilicueta finished the season with 47 appearances, further enhancing his status as one of the league’s most consistent and intelligent defenders.
2017–18 Season
Azpilicueta once again played an integral role under Conte, continuing as a right centre-back. He developed a notable on-field connection with striker Álvaro Morata, assisting several of his goals with pinpoint long passes. Although Chelsea failed to mount a serious title challenge, they ended the season with silverware, winning the FA Cup after defeating Manchester United in the final. Azpilicueta was ever-reliable across competitions, with 52 appearances and no noticeable dip in performance. His consistency, professionalism, and adaptability remained his strongest assets, even as the team struggled for league form.
2018–19 Season
With the departure of Gary Cahill from the starting XI, Azpilicueta was officially named club captain under Maurizio Sarri. Reverting to a traditional right-back role in a back four, he was a near-constant presence in Chelsea’s high-possession, tactically rigid system. Although not as dynamic going forward, he remained defensively solid and led the team vocally and by example. Azpilicueta captained Chelsea to a third-place league finish and a UEFA Europa League title, starting in the 4–1 final win over Arsenal in Baku. He made 57 appearances in all competitions—the most of any Chelsea player that season.
2019–20 Season
Under new manager and club legend Frank Lampard, Azpilicueta had to adapt to a squad in transition, featuring a number of young and untested players. Despite facing early-season competition from emerging academy graduate Reece James, Azpilicueta reclaimed his place with performances marked by resilience and leadership. He played at both right-back and left-back throughout the season, often adjusting mid-game as required. He was involved in Chelsea’s run to the FA Cup final, although he was forced off injured during the defeat to Arsenal at Wembley. Azpilicueta made 49 appearances in a season that saw Chelsea finish fourth and secure Champions League qualification despite a transfer ban.
2020–21 Season
Initially rotated under Lampard, Azpilicueta regained prominence when Thomas Tuchel replaced the Englishman in January. Tuchel implemented a back three system that perfectly suited Azpilicueta, who was restored to the right-sided centre-back position. His experience and tactical nous were invaluable as Chelsea dramatically improved defensively. Azpilicueta captained the side throughout a remarkable Champions League campaign, starting and excelling in knockout wins over Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, and Manchester City. His crowning moment came in May, when he lifted the Champions League trophy as captain—only the second Chelsea player to do so. He made 43 appearances and was widely praised for his leadership and clutch performances in Europe.
2021–22 Season
Azpilicueta remained a key member of Tuchel’s squad, frequently rotated across the backline due to injuries to key players like Reece James and Ben Chilwell. Though his pace had begun to decline, he compensated with positional awareness and unmatched commitment. He lifted both the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup as captain—completing Chelsea’s set of major trophies. Azpilicueta also scored in the League Cup final penalty shootout against Liverpool, though Chelsea were ultimately runners-up in both domestic cups. He made 47 appearances and maintained his importance as both a leader on and off the pitch during another congested and demanding season,
2022–23 Season
In what proved to be his final season at Chelsea, Azpilicueta found himself used more sparingly amid managerial upheaval and heavy squad turnover. Playing under Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and a returning Frank Lampard, he featured primarily as a backup to Reece James. Nonetheless, he made 32 appearances and continued to serve as club captain, providing experience and professionalism in a disjointed campaign that saw Chelsea finish in the bottom half of the Premier League table. In July 2023, he departed the club after 11 years to join Atlético Madrid, closing a legendary chapter in Chelsea’s modern era.
International
Azpilicueta has represented his country from Under-16 level up, and in 2007 was a member of Spain's U19 UEFA European Championship-winning side. He was selected for the Under-21 side for the 2009 European Championships, starting all three matches as Spain failed to make it out of the group stage. Ahead of the 2010 World Cup he was named in Vicente del Bosque's provisional list of 30 but didn't make the final squad. He also represented his country at the 2012 London Olympics, in a squad that contained future Chelsea teammates Juan Mata and Oriol Romeu, though he only made one appearance as the World and European champions made a surprise exit in the group stage. He made his debut for the senior Spanish international side after joining Chelsea, starting in a friendly against Uruguay on 6 February 2013. He represented his country at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, although the reigning champions crashed out in the group stage.
Statistics
| Season | Prem | FA Cup | League Cup | Europe | Other | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | |
| 2012-13 | 27 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 8 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 47 | 0 |
| 2013-14 | 29 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 44 | 1 |
| 2014-15 | 29 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 40 | 0 |
| 2015-16 | 37 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 8 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 49 | 2 |
| 2016-17 | 38 | 1 | 6 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 47 | 2 |
| 2017-18 | 37 | 2 | 4 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 8 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 52 | 3 |
| 2018-19 | 38 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 57 | 1 |
| 2019-20 | 36 | 2 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 49 | 4 |
| 2020-21 | 26 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 11 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 43 | 1 |
| 2021-22 | 27 | 1 | 4 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 9 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 47 | 3 |
| 2022-23 | 25 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 32 | 0 |
| Total | 349 | 10 | 39 | 1 | 31 | 2 | 80 | 4 | 9 | 0 | 508 | 17 |
Correct as of the end of the 2022-23 season
Goals
| # | Season | Date | Year | Competition | Opponent | Score | Result | Venue |
| 1 | 2013-14 | 29 October | 2013 | League Cup | Arsenal | 1-0 | 2-0 | Emirates Stadium |
| 2 | 2015-16 | 23 August | 2015 | Premier League | West Brom | 3-1 | 3-2 | The Hawthorns |
| 3 | 2015-16 | 13 January | 2016 | Premier League | West Brom | 1-0 | 2-2 | Stamford Bridge |
| 4 | 2016-17 | 20 September | 2016 | League Cup | Leicester City | 2-2 | 4-2 | King Power Stadium |
| 5 | 2016-17 | 15 May | 2017 | Premier League | Watford | 2-1 | 4-3 | Stamford Bridge |
| 6 | 2017-18 | 12 September | 2017 | UEFA Champions League | Qarabağ | 3-0 | 6-0 | Stamford Bridge |
| 7 | 2017-18 | 21 October | 2017 | Premier League | Watford | 3-2 | 4-2 | Stamford Bridge |
| 8 | 2017-18 | 8 April | 2018 | Premier League | West Ham United | 1-0 | 1-1 | Stamford Bridge |
| 9 | 2018-19 | 31 March | 2019 | Premier League | Cardiff City | 1-1 | 2-1 | Cardiff City Stadium |
| 10 | 2019-20 | 05 November | 2019 | UEFA Champions League | Ajax | 3-4 | 4-4 | Stamford Bridge |
| 11 | 2019-20 | 10 December | 2019 | UEFA Champions League | [[Lille] | 2-0 | 2-0 | Stamford Bridge |
| 12 | 2019-20 | 01 January | 2020 | Premier League | Brighton & Hove Albion | 1-0 | 1-1 | the Amex |
| 13 | 2019-20 | 21 January | 2020 | Premier League | Arsenal | 2-1 | 2-2 | Stamford Bridge |
| 14 | 2020-21 | 31 January | 2021 | Premier League | Burnley | 1-0 | 2-0 | Stamford Bridge |
| 15 | 2021-22 | 05 February | 2022 | FA Cup | Plymouth Argyle | 1-1 | 2-1 | Stamford Bridge |
| 16 | 2021-22 | 16 March | 2022 | UEFA Champions League | Lille | 2-1 | 2-1 | Stade Pierre Mauroy |
| 17 | 2021-22 | 20 April | 2022 | Premier League | Arsenal | 2-2 | 2-4 | Stamford Bridge |
Career honours
Club
- Marseille
- Trophée des Champions: 2010, 2011
- Coupe de la Ligue: 2010-11, 2011-12
- Chelsea
- Premier League: 2014-15, 2016-17
- League Cup: 2015
- UEFA Europa League: 2013, 2018-19
- FA Cup: 2018
- UEFA Champions League: 2020-21
- UEFA Super Cup: 2021
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2021
International
- Spain U19
- UEFA European Under-19 Championship: 2007
- Spain U21
- UEFA European Under-21 Championship: 2011
