In some good news for Chelsea fans, it is being reported by The Athletic that defender Cesar Azpilicueta has triggered a contract extension clause after playing a specific number of games this season. This comes after months of speculation that Azpilicueta could leave with Barcelona rumoured to have made a contract offer to the defender.
Cesar Azpilicueta Staying at Chelsea Following Contract Extension Clause Being Triggered
A Key Re-Signing
One of the standout worries from Chelsea fans following the January transfer window was the uncertainty surrounding the future of the team’s defence. At the time, Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen, and Cesar Azpilicueta were all in the final months of their contract. The departures of all three would of course have a huge impact on Chelsea’s defence, but Azpilicueta’s versatility and consistency would be especially difficult to replace. While Rudiger’s future is still up in the air and Christensen is now almost certainly headed to Barcelona, it is a good sign that the club will keep Azpilicueta around for another season.
The Spanish defender has been with Chelsea for almost a decade now, making over 400 appearances in the process, and has played all across the backline. The club captain continues to marshal the defence and fill in wherever needed.
How Did Chelsea Extend His Contract With Current Sanctions?
Under current sanctions Chelsea cannot have players sign new contracts, nor can they buy or sell anyone. The reason they have been able to extend Azpilciueta’s deal is that this isn’t a new contract, it is the triggering of a contract extension clause that was part of the original deal he signed back in 2018.
With no end in sight to Chelsea’s current situation, it will settle the nerves of at least some fans to know that the club captain will be sticking around for another year, even if Christensen and Rudiger’s futures are far less certain.
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