Why Azpilicueta should remain as Chelsea's Captain

With the recent arrival of Thiago Silva, a report from Globo Esporte claimed that Lampard has discussed the possibility of Silva becoming Chelsea’s new captain. Debates have soared among the fan base whether this is the right move.

LGBT rainbow captain's armband is seen on the arm of César Azpilicueta of Chelsea FC during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge on December 4, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)

By Justin Shain29 August 2020 01:36 BST

Cesar Azpilicueta who has been with Chelsea for eight seasons and the current captain has been nothing but an exemplary professional and a leader since he joined back in 2012.

The mere possibility that Azpilicueta might be stripped of his captaincy is just wrong.

Here is why.

Epitome of Chelsea

Azpilicueta embodies everything that Chelsea stands for. He understands the club’s values, vision, and history. He has all of the qualities of a true leader.

From professionalism to hard work. There is not one single moment in time that any Chelsea fan can recall where Azpilicueta hasn’t been professional or gave it his all in a game.

He has bleed blue for eight straight seasons and understands what it means to be a true blue.

Loyalty and Consistency

This may be the biggest reason why he is Chelsea’s current captain and why he should remain one. Azpilicueta is currently Chelsea’s longest first team player (not including academy years) and has been the most consistent Chelsea player by a mile.

On average, he has played 34 games a season in his eight years at Chelsea and has played over 35 a season in the last five years. In that time, he has played numerous positions across the backline including CB, RCB, RB, and LB.

The fact that he has been consistently picked in all those years by Chelsea managers just shows that he is a true leader. Consistency and hard work is vital as it sets an example for the rest of the players. It pushes the players around him to match it. Which is needed in the competitive and fast paced nature of the Premier League.

He is our longest serving, most consistent, and most versatile defender. He is the perfect leader.

Leader on and off the pitch

Being vocal is not the only attribute required to take the armband. Azpilicueta may not be the most vocal leader but he is a leader by example.

His hard work ethic rubs off on players around him and the team’s morale. Especially to young players who often look up to the senior players in the team. In Chelsea’s case where there is a young squad, this is a must.

A captain must be able to be a leader at all times. They must be a leader on and off the pitch. Azpilicueta is certainly one. He shows professionalism on the pitch through discipline and off the pitch in things such as press conferences.

Silva doesn't need an armband to lead

Lastly, people seem to forget the fact that Thiago Silva can still be a leader on the pitch without the captain’s armband. Chelsea does not lack a leader, they lack the presence of leaders. Silva will be another leader on the pitch with Azpilicueta and bring more experience to the squad. He does not need an armband to do so.

The Premier League is just around the corner and it will be interesting to see how things pan out.