Spanish · Pamplona, Spain · Born 28 August 1989Mr. Reliable — Chelsea's versatile captain who played across the entire back line with unwavering consistency for over a decade.
César Azpilicueta Tanco was born in Pamplona, Spain on 28 August 1989. He joined Chelsea from Marseille in 2012 for £7 million and became one of the club's most dependable players. Capable of playing right-back, left-back and centre-back, his positional intelligence, leadership and determination earned him the nickname 'Dave' from fans. He captained Chelsea and made 504 appearances, winning the Premier League twice (2015, 2017), the Champions League in 2021, the Europa League twice, the FA Cup and the Club World Cup. He earned 40 caps for Spain. He joined Atlético Madrid in 2023.
Versatile defender, Chelsea captain, Premier League and Champions League winner
Chelsea fans nicknamed him 'Dave' because they found 'Azpilicueta' difficult to pronounce, and the name stuck as a term of endearment.
Did You Know?How They Played
Versatile full-back, strong defensively, excellent crossing ability
Lasting Impact
One of Chelsea's most reliable defenders and captains in modern era
Career Honours
- Premier League 2x
- Champions League 2021
- Europa League 2x
- FA Cup 1x
- League Cup 1x
- Club World Cup 2022
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Osasuna | 2007–2010 | 100 | 4 | #28 |
| Marseille | 2010–2012 | 44 | 11 | #11 |
| Chelsea | 2012–2023 | 20 | 17 | #11 |
| Atlético Madrid | 2023–present | 0 | 0 | — |
 Spain | — | 41 | — | — |
Spanish Athletes