Share

Azpilicueta ready for new season

Cape Town - Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta is relishing a return to Stamford Bridge as the Blues complete their pre-season schedule against Fiorentina on Wednesday evening.

Azpilicueta was a key figure in last season's Barclays Premier League title success, built on the club's impressive unbeaten record at their home ground. 

"We are looking forward to coming again to our stadium, to be together with the fans and obviously looking forward to starting the season after that in the Premier League," Azpilicueta told the club's website.

"It's a friendly game for our fans but we have to treat it as the last game before the start of the season and try to be 100 per cent ready for Swansea City on Saturday."

"Very good memories," the Spanish full-back nodded when recalling his last time out at the Bridge - the champions parade at Stamford Bridge.

"It was all our efforts during the season that came together in that moment and we have to think about it a lot to be there again at the end of the season."

Chelsea open their Premier League title defence at home to Swansea City on Saturday.

Kick-off at Stamford Bridge is set for 18:30. 

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE