Cesar Azpilicueta puts family first as he takes a break after retirement

Cesar Azpilicueta says family life is his priority after retirement, with the former Chelsea captain not yet committing to a future as a sporting director. In an interview published by BBC Sport on Sunday, the 37-year-old explained that he no longer had the energy to devote himself fully to another season.

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Azpilicueta spoke while collecting a diploma in global football sport directorship through the PFA Business School at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium. According to the BBC, he left open the possibility of working as a sporting director but stressed his need for a break. He now wants more time with his family and to play golf.

His studies have accompanied his football career rather than simply followed it. He told the BBC that education helped him through his final playing years. He also recalled studying before Chelsea's 2021 Champions League final because he could not sleep, using the work to take his attention away from the occasion.

The interview follows a retirement decision announced in May, rather than marking a new departure from the game. Chelsea's official announcement confirmed that Azpilicueta would finish his professional career at the end of the season with Sevilla. After leaving Stamford Bridge in 2023, he spent two years at Atletico Madrid before moving to Sevilla for his final campaign. He also represented Spain 44 times.

Chelsea recorded 508 appearances for Azpilicueta during his 11 years at the club, more than any other non-English player in its history. Signed from Marseille in 2012, he went on to make a club-record 13 appearances in major cup finals. His time in west London included winning the Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup, as well as the Champions League and Europa League.

The UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup completed a collection that Chelsea described as the first full set won by one of its players. In the retirement letter reproduced by the club, Azpilicueta thanked teammates, coaches, staff and supporters across his career. He also credited his family's support, acknowledging their role throughout the 20 seasons he spent as a professional.