I clawed my way to the top but need a break - Azpilicueta
Former Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta discusses his transition into retirement and the importance of education throughout his football career. He highlights how pursuing an MBA and other qualifications helped him manage the pressures of professional sports.
Why it matters
It provides insight into the post-career planning of elite athletes and the growing trend of professional footballers pursuing academic credentials.
Image source, PFA Image caption, Azpilicueta is sixth in the all-time appearance list after playing 508 times in 11 years for Chelsea.
Chelsea reporter Published 29 minutes ago Cesar Azpilicueta was an all-encompassing leader for Chelsea - and, now retired, he reflects on how his passion for education and attention to detail helped him build a career at the highest level.
One story sums it up. Before Chelsea 's Champions League final victory in 2021, Azpilicueta could not take his customary pre-match nap and opted to study instead.
He says his work towards an MBA in business management from the Berlin School of Business and Innovation took his mind off the pressure and noise on the streets of Porto.
Later that day, he lifted the Champions League trophy after captaining Chelsea to victory against Manchester City .
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