Cucurella's Rapid Exit
Marc Cucurella has described how his £52m move from Chelsea to Real Madrid unfolded in just a day and a half, admitting the allure of the Spanish giants proved impossible to resist. The 27-year-old full-back, speaking from Spain's World Cup training base in Chattanooga, Tennessee, revealed that the whirlwind deal caught him by surprise.
"It was all very fast. I got a phone call one morning. My people told me the two clubs had the terms mostly agreed and that I had to decide if I wanted to go there. I had no doubts. It is a big step for me, very important in my career. It all happened in roughly a day and a half. For me, that was the best thing, so it could be all done and I could keep my focus on the World Cup."
Cucurella also disclosed he had a direct telephone conversation with Real Madrid head coach José Mourinho, who outlined his plans for the defender in the Spanish capital. The rapid negotiation meant the Spain international could finalise the move before fully immersing himself in the World Cup campaign.
Defending the Move to Barcelona Fans
The transfer sparked a backlash from Barcelona supporters, given Cucurella’s roots. Born and raised in Catalonia and a product of Barça’s academy from age 14, his decision to join their arch-rivals angered many. Cucurella, however, was unapologetic.
"I am very happy. When Real come for you it's very difficult to say no. I know there is criticism, but this is football and I have to think about my career. My wife Claudia comes from a family of Madrid supporters, so she is maybe even happier than I am."
The defender’s exit brings an end to a mixed spell at Chelsea, where he arrived in 2022 but struggled to consistently replicate the form he showed at Brighton. Now, he joins a Real Madrid side rebuilding under Mourinho after a transitional period.
Key Takeaways
- Marc Cucurella’s £52m switch from Chelsea to Real Madrid was completed in just 36 hours after both clubs quickly agreed terms.
- The full-back confirmed a phone call with José Mourinho played a key role in his decision, highlighting the coach’s influence.
- Cucurella faced criticism from Barcelona fans due to his Catalan background but insists the opportunity was too good to turn down.
- The move allows him to focus entirely on Spain’s World Cup campaign now that his club future is resolved.
Quick Facts
Transfer Fee: £52m
Player Age: 27
Former Club: Chelsea
New Club: Real Madrid
Deal Completion Time: Approximately 36 hours
Contract Length: Not disclosed
Source: The Guardian
