Chelsea have bid farewell to defender Cesar Azpilicueta as he gets ready to join Atletico Madrid on a free transfer.

Despite signing a new one-year contract with the club earlier this year, the 33-year-old has been released by Chelsea, allowing him to return to Spain without any transfer fee involved.

A statement issued by Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly and co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali said: "Cesar leaves an everlasting mark at Chelsea, as a warrior, as a champion, and as loyal Chelsea legend.

He has set the standards at the club for more than a decade and demonstrated to everyone what is required day in, day out to achieve success."

César Azpilicueta says goodbye to Stamford Bridge 👋#SportsGist Kylian Mbappe | Barca #kwadaso Raphinha | Xavi | Dembele pic.twitter.com/yUe5152H7o— Sports Gist (@theSportsGist) July 6, 2023