Azpilicueta ends Barcelona speculation by extending his contract with Chelsea
Cesar Azpilicueta has signed a new contract with Chelsea until 2024, effectively ending speculation that he would join Barcelona.
The Blues’ long-serving captain had less than a year left on his previous contract and emerged as a target for Barcelona.
Azpilicueta, on the other hand, will not be returning to his homeland after agreeing to stay at Stamford Bridge for at least another two seasons.
The 32-year-old moved to Stamford Bridge from Marseille in August 2012 and has won every major trophy during his decade at the club.
He has won the Premier League twice, the FA Cup, the League Cup, the Champions League, the Europa League twice, the UEFA Super Cup once, and the FIFA Club World Cup once.
“I am very happy to extend my stay at Chelsea, my home,” said the captain. It’s been almost ten years since I first arrived and joined the club, so I really feel the love, and I’m really excited about the new project we’re working on.
“I’d like to thank Mr Todd [Boehly, Chelsea chairman and co-controlling owner] and Mr Behdad [Eghbali, Blues co-controlling owner] for giving me the opportunity to continue my journey at this incredible club, and I’m looking forward to continuing our adventure.” I’m a very proud captain, and I hope we can make many wonderful memories together.”
Azpilicueta’s decision to stay at Chelsea is a major boost for head coach Thomas Tuchel ahead of his team’s first Premier League game of the season on Sunday against Everton (AEST).
The Spain international, who has played in a back three and as a wing-back under Tuchel, made 47 appearances for the Blues last season, bringing his total for the club to 476.
“We are overjoyed that Cesar will be staying at Chelsea for at least another two years,” said Boehly. We are overjoyed that our captain has demonstrated his exemplary commitment and leadership yet again. There is still so much we can accomplish together.”