César Azpilicueta reflects on Lamine Yamal, Chelsea Days, and Tuchel in candid interview

Former Chelsea and Spain captain César Azpilicueta has opened up about his illustrious career in a wide-ranging interview, sharing insights on playing alongside young prodigy Lamine Yamal, his time at Chelsea with Reece James and Thomas Tuchel, and his early years at Marseille under Didier Deschamps.

Former Chelsea and Spain captain César Azpilicueta has opened up about his illustrious career in a wide-ranging interview, sharing insights on playing alongside young prodigy Lamine Yamal, his time at Chelsea with Reece James and Thomas Tuchel, and his early years at Marseille under Didier Deschamps.

Speaking to Steve Crossman, Azpilicueta recalled the early promise of Yamal, describing the teenager’s talent as “something special” and noting how his maturity on the pitch stood out even at a young age. The 35-year-old, who recently announced his retirement from international football, also reflected on his Chelsea days, praising Reece James’s development and the tactical acumen of former manager Thomas Tuchel, under whom Chelsea won the Champions League in 2021.

Azpilicueta also looked back on his formative years at Marseille, working under Didier Deschamps, whom he described as a “demanding” but “brilliant” coach who shaped his understanding of the game. The interview offers a rare glimpse into the career of one of Spain’s most decorated defenders, who won multiple trophies at Chelsea and earned over 100 caps for his country. As Azpilicueta transitions into the next phase of his career, his reflections provide a fascinating look at the people and moments that defined his journey.