Antonio Conte once described Cesar Azpilicueta as “one of the best defenders in the world”, and the latest Napoli transfer news reveals the pair could be set for a heartfelt reunion in Italy this summer.
Cesar Azpilicueta Leaves Atletico Madrid as a Free Agent
Former Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta arrived at Atletico Madrid as a free agent two years ago, and he now departs in the same fashion.
Sending a heart-warming message to Atleti fans, the 35-year-old thanked the club for the two year stint, and says he wished he “could have helped in winning titles” amid a dry spell for Diego Simeone’s side.
Azpilicueta saw his minutes cut drastically last season after managing just 14 appearances, with the likes of Clement Lenglet and Robin Le Normand above him in the pecking order.
He was, however, a mainstay in Atleti’s team in his first campaign, and still appears to have capacity for competing at the top level.
🔴⚪ Gracias, Atlético de Madrid 🔴⚪
Después de dos temporadas, ha llegado el momento de despedirme. Aunque mi etapa en el Atlético ha sido breve, ha estado llena de compromiso, entrega y aprendizaje.
Desde el primer día me sentí acogido como uno más. He tenido la suerte de… pic.twitter.com/yYyggqw6fd
— César Azpilicueta (@CesarAzpi) June 30, 2025
Azpilicueta Linked With Conte Reunion in Latest Napoli Transfer News
The 44-cap Spain international has already snubbed a potential return to the Premier League, citing his unyielding loyalty to former club Chelsea, with whom he spent over a decade with.
In that hugely successful period in West London, Azpilicueta was instrumental in several silverware-winning teams, including Antonio Conte’s Premier League champions.
The Italian described Azpilicueta as “one of the best defenders in the world” following the 2016-17 season, in which he played every second of the campaign.
The Spaniard shares mutual admiration for his former boss, saying that although Conte was demanding in training, he made him “feel stronger” as soon as he stepped on to the pitch.
Although he is expected to take some time to assess his next move as he approaches the twilight of his career, several teams have already expressed an interest in his services.
Jose Mourinho is keen on a reunion with Azpilicueta at Fernabache, but FootItalia sources now understand Antonio Conte is eager to add an experienced back-up in defense.
Azpilicueta would arrive with modest wage demands and zero transfer fees, and Conte is already said to have approached Napoli’s hierarchy to request the signing of the Spaniard.
He would also be able to provide cover across the entire back line, which, for a team aiming to cement their champion status for another year, could prove valuable.
Napoli and Conte are favorites to retain the Scudetto next season according to live betting sites, and adding the leadership qualities of Azpilicueta for free would be a welcomed addition.
