According to a recent report by the Daily Mirror, Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta could be allowed to seal a return back to Spain if he loses his first-team place to Reece James this season. The same source has also mentioned that both Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao are monitoring the veteran defender’s situation at Stamford Bridge ahead of a potential move at the end of this campaign.
Azpilicueta’s Remarkable Career At West London
Frank Lampard has already shown that he is willing to promote his younger players as evidenced by the recent emergence of Mason Mount, Billy Gilmour and Tammy Abraham in his first-team. Hence, Reece James will be expected to be given a chance once he is ready to feature in the Premier League which could make Azpilicueta’s place vulnerable in the Pensioners squad.
Since joining the London outfit from Marseille in the summer of 2012, the Spanish right-back has gone on to make 342 appearances for Chelsea, scoring nine goals while grabbing 43 assists across all competitions. However, he had to endure a dip in form defensively last season as father time was catching up to him.
Azpilicueta made an average of 2.8 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 2.0 clearances per game in the English top-flight in the previous campaign (stats via whoscored). He has also earned 25 international caps for Spain but has never scored for his country.
What Does The Pamplona-born Talent Add To Lampard’s Squad?
Azpilicueta has lost a yard of pace, but he can still contribute by providing a few assists in the final third. However, he has looked a bit vulnerable in defence this season which is a cause for concern. The Spaniard has a wealth of experience in English football and knows what it takes to taste success at the highest level.
He is a calming presence in the Chelsea dressing room and has led the club well in the recent past. But there is no denying that Azpilicueta is a player on the decline and should be moved on if the Pensioners are to win some silverware under Lampard’s tutelage in the coming years.
Should Lampard Sanction Azpilicueta’s Departure Next Summer?
A return to Spanish football will benefit the Chelsea full-back as he would be able to make a fresh start and earn regular first-team minutes as he heads into the twilight years of his career. Therefore, Lampard should consider letting him leave during the summer transfer window of 2020.
