A product of Osasuna's youth system, right-back Azpilicueta enjoyed success early in his career as he won the 2007 European Under-19 Football Championship with Spain before establishing himself as a regular in La Liga.

Such was his impact that, in 2010, ahead of the World Cup, Spain boss Vicente Del Bosque named him in the provisional squad for South Africa, although he did not make the final cut.

He left Osasuna for Marseille after that, but his debut season in France was heavily hindered by a serious injury he suffered in November. Nonetheless, he recovered before the end of the season and was able to link up with the national team for their 2011 UEFA European Under-21 Championship success.

He became a key part of the Marseille side and won the Coupe de la Ligue in both 2011 and 2012 before accepting a move to Chelsea for a reported fee of £7 million.

Strengths: A skilful player, he is strong and pacy and has the ability to support the attack from out wide.

Weaknesses: Defending is not the strongest part of his game and he can get caught out at times.

Career high: Returning from serious injury to link up with the Spain Under-21 side for their 2011 European Championship success.

Career low: In November 2010, shortly after joining Marseille, Azpilicueta suffered a serious knee injury that kept him out for much of the season.

Style: A technically gifted right-back with the ability to provide width and an attacking threat.

Quote: "He is a strong running right-back who has pace as well, so I think he is already a complete player. He's a young player who is very clever on and off the pitch." Chelsea team-mate Juan Mata, September 2012

Trivia: Azpilicueta scored an own goal on his Champions League debut as Marseille lost 1-0 at home to Spartak Moscow.