Former Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta has announced his retirement from professional football. The veteran defender shared an emotional farewell message after bringing the curtain down on a career that spanned 20 seasons across Europe.

Prominent names on the list As expected, the provisional squad features several high-profile stars whose experience and talent could prove decisive when the tournament kicks off next month. Up front, fans will recognize two-time African Player of the Year Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, whose pace and clinical finishing have made him one of the continent’s most feared strikers. He will be joined by the versatile Riyad Mahrez, known for his dribbling ability and set-piece expertise, providing creativity from wide positions. In midfield, the selection committee has entrusted the anchoring role to Idrissa Gueye, a combative ball-winner whose energy and distribution have earned him a reputation as one of Europe’s most reliable holding midfielders. His partnership with the technically gifted Thomas Partey should give the team both solidity and flair in the centre of the park. At the back, the back line will be led by the seasoned defender Kalidou Koulibaly, whose commanding presence and reading