Chelsea have confirmed that club captain and Spanish International César Azpilicueta will leave the club for free this summer. This brings an end to an immaculate 11-year stay at the club for the former Marseille man.

The Spaniard will join Atlético Madrid on a 1-year deal as he winds down on an illustrious career in Spain.

Azpilicueta joined Chelsea from Marseille back in 2012 for a reported €7m fee. He made his debut with the Under23’s in what showed him how hard it was to play for Chelsea at that time.

However, his work rate, discipline, skills, heart, and mentality helped him secure a starting spot in the Chelsea side, and he never looked back.

He went on to become the most important and reliable name on the team sheet for Chelsea, and that made him a fan favourite. He leaves Chelsea after 11 years and winning every major trophy available in to him.

Chelsea’s new owner Todd Boehly also celebrated the legacy the Spaniard leaves behind at Chelsea.

‘César leaves an everlasting mark at Chelsea, as a warrior, as a champion, and as loyal Chelsea legend. 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.’

César Azpilicueta will join Atlético Madrid for free after Chelsea mutually agreed to cancelling his contract out of respect for the 33-year-old Spaniard.

Cesar Azpilicueta