Official: César Azpilicueta signs new Chelsea contract extension

José Mourinho once declared that he could win the Champions League with “11 Azpilicuetas” and while that secret cloning project at Stamford Bridge never quite took off, the one Azpilicueta we do have has continued to play a key part for any and all managers to take a turn in SW6.

And he’s now ensured that the will continue to do so for several more years, as Chelsea today confirmed that the 29-year-old has signed a new long-term contract. His old deal, signed two years ago, had 18 months left to run on it. Now, he’s signed through the 2021-22 season! And there was much rejoicing.

The reports that broke this news over the weekend prior to Chelsea’s official confirmation claimed that the new contract came with a small raise as well, from £120k-per-week to £150k. It’s all well deserved, unquestionably, for the club vice-captain, who’s worn the captain’s armband for most of the season as Gary Cahill’s playing time has diminished.

“I am really happy to extend my stay here at Chelsea. Since I came, I felt the joy and responsibility to play for this club, these fans, and every time I go on the pitch I try do my best. Hopefully there is a lot to come and we can keep Chelsea where it belongs.”

-César Azpilicueta; source: Chelsea FC

Captain Dave is one of the longest serving, most competitive, most respected, and most crucial members of the squad. Whether at right back, left back, center back, or whatever other position the future may hold, it’s hard to imagine a Chelsea lineup without him in it, just as it has been since 2012 and now set to last until at least 2022.

A Decade of Dave! What a wonderful decade!

“Cesar is one of our longest-serving players and has proven to be a fantastic acquisition over the past six years. His professionalism and consistency in that time have been second to none and he has also developed into one of the squad’s most influential players.

“This new contract will take Cesar to 10 seasons at Chelsea, and we hope that over the next four years he will be a key part of our success.”

-Marina Granovskaia; source: Chelsea FC