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On 22 May 2026, Sevilla FC defender César Azpilicueta officially announced one of the toughest decisions any athlete can make — his retirement from professional football. In a heartfelt message, the Spanish player confirmed that the current season will mark the conclusion of his long and successful journey in the sport.

At 36 years old, the Navarre-born defender has chosen to end a career that has lasted two decades at the highest competitive level. In his farewell note, Azpilicueta admitted that although he had mentally prepared himself for this moment, putting the final words together for the announcement was an immensely challenging task.

Azpilicueta’s football story began in the youth system of his hometown, Pamplona, without imagining the remarkable path that awaited him. Throughout his career, he has proudly represented some of Europe’s most distinguished clubs — CA Osasuna, Olympique de Marseille, Chelsea FC, Atlético de Madrid, and Sevilla FC.

The Spanish international also took the opportunity to express his sincere appreciation to all his teammates, coaches, and staff members who supported him along the way. He emphasised that it was an enormous honour to wear the national team jersey and compete on football’s grandest stages.

As he steps away from the pitch, the football world bids farewell to a consummate professional, widely admired for his dedication, leadership, and sportsmanship wherever he played. Azpilicueta will conclude his time at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium this year and embark on a new and promising chapter of his life beyond football.