Marc Cucurella has described his move to Real Madrid as an opportunity that was simply impossible to reject, despite his previous association with Barcelona. The Spain international joined Madrid from Chelsea in a €55 million (£47.5m) deal and has now begun training with his new club. Speaking to Real Madrid TV, Cucurella said, “As a kid starting out playing football, then having the opportunity to play for a club like this, it’s very hard to turn down.” He also added, “When the opportunity came, I didn’t hesitate for a second. As a spectator, I’ve seen all those magical nights, those comebacks at the Bernabeu, all the Champions League titles they’ve lifted.”
Cucurella admitted that representing Madrid carries enormous responsibility but said he was excited by the challenge. “Having the chance to experience it first-hand and be a part of it is a huge responsibility, but also a very beautiful and important challenge,” he said. He further called the move an honour, stating, “It’s an honour – not many people can say they’ve worn this jersey. We’ve seen great legends here, it’s a club with a lot of history, the biggest in Europe.” Reflecting on his journey, he added, “Being here today is a privilege, an honour, and above all, a reward for all the effort I’ve put into my career.” When asked about Jose Mourinho, he said the coach had brought a lot of confidence and naturalness, he added “We have to do what we know out on the field, and above all, enjoy ourselves. I think what we all want is to win and to have a great year.”
Cucurella reunites with Mourinho as Real Madrid begin new era
Marc Cucurella’s arrival at Real Madrid has added another intriguing chapter to the club’s new era under José Mourinho. The Spanish left-back became Mourinho’s first signing after the Portuguese manager returned to the Bernabéu, completing a €55 million move from Chelsea, with a further €5m potentially payable in add-ons. Real Madrid confirmed that Cucurella has signed a six-year contract running until June 2032.
The transfer was completed remarkably quickly, with reports stating that negotiations accelerated after Mourinho personally contacted Cucurella. The defender had previously been linked with Atlético Madrid and Barcelona, but Madrid’s intervention changed the course of his future. Cucurella now returns to La Liga after five seasons in England, having spent four years at Chelsea. His move also comes after an impressive summer with Spain, as he played every minute of their World Cup-winning campaign. Real Madrid have highlighted his European Championship triumph in 2024, Club World Cup success with Chelsea and his experience with the Spanish national team as part of his credentials.
