Spain international Marc Cucurella has revealed that he decided to leave Chelsea and sign for Real Madrid because it was an opportunity he and his family couldn’t refuse. His admission came after the 27-year-old signed a six-year deal with Los Blancos, following his €55 million transfer on June 15.
Cucurella was recently asked about his decision to join Jose Mourinho and Co., to which he replied (via Fabrizio Romano):
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“For me and my family it was an opportunity we couldn’t refuse, and I’m very happy with the decision we made. When you’re a kid, you dream of playing for big teams, and I think Real Madrid is one of them.”
Marc Cucurella plied his trade for Barcelona during his youth career, but made just one appearance for the senior team. He made a name for himself at Getafe and Brighton & Hove Albion before making a big-money transfer to Chelsea in the summer of 2022.
Despite initially having a rocky start at Stamford Bridge, the Spaniard established himself as one of the best left-backs in the Premier League. He scored nine goals and provided 13 assists in 163 appearances across all competitions for the Blues, helping them win the FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Conference League.
“I’m very happy for this confidence” – Cucurella reveals Jose Mourinho influenced his decision to leave Chelsea and join Real Madrid
From the aforementioned interview with El Mundo, Marc Cucurella also revealed that Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho played a major role in his decision to leave Chelsea and join Los Blancos. Mourinho made the 27-year-old feel wanted through these conversations, as Cucurella said (via Managing Madrid):
“Mourinho told me he was really looking forward to working with me, that I would adapt very well, and that Real Madrid was a great club. I’m very happy for this confidence. I can’t wait to start working with him.”
He also revealed that he received multiple offers this summer but prioritized Madrid:
“There were different options, but when the Madrid offer came, I didn’t hesitate. I think it’s a unique opportunity.”
In addition, Cucurella also revealed that the deal was wrapped up swiftly in just one to two days behind the scenes. He is Real Madrid‘s third signing this summer to date, following the arrivals of Bernardo Silva and Ibrahima Konate.
Edited by Silas Sud