Chelsea star Cesar Azpilicueta has explained why he chose to snub a transfer to Barcelona in the summer. The Blues captain was linked with a switch to the Camp Nou after spending 10 years at Stamford Bridge.
Azpilicueta is currently with the Spain squad who are aiming to book their place in the World Cup quarter-finals when they take on Morocco on Tuesday afternoon. The Spanish defender was close to a return to Spain in the summer as Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez targeted a move for Azpilicueta.
The Catalan giants beat Chelsea to the signings of Raphinha and Jules Kounde in the summer transfer window. Marcos Alonso completed a switch to Barca late in the transfer window, but Azpilicueta opted against following the defender to Spain.
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Ahead of Spain's clash against Morocco in the World Cup round of 16, the Chelsea star has explained why he refused to join Barcelona following Todd Boehly's influence on his decision. Speaking to AS, Azpilicueta said: "At Chelsea I played less than 30 games and I was already a free agent.
"It had never happened to me in my life. But the new owners arrived and they showed me the desire to stay with me.
"London is my home and my children speak English better than Spanish," he added. "When I made the decision I think Xavi understood it. If things are clear, they are understood."
Azpilicueta has proved to be a crucial player for the Blues since his arrival in 2012, winning the Premier League, Champions League, Europa League, FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup. The Spaniard is set to remain at Stamford Bridge until 2024 as he continues to provide quality and cover in defence for Graham Potter's side.
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