3 Marc Cucurella

Born on 22 July 1998 in Alella, Barcelona, Cucurella started his football journey playing futsal with FS Alella before joining Espanyol’s youth system in 2006.[4][5] In 2012, he moved to Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, where he developed into a promising left-sided defender.[6]

His senior debut came with Barcelona B on 26 November 2016 in a 4–0 win over L’Hospitalet in the Segunda División B.[7] He helped the team earn promotion to the Segunda División and extended his contract in July 2017, with a €12 million release clause.[8] Cucurella made his first-team debut for Barcelona on 24 October 2017, appearing as a substitute in a Copa del Rey victory against Real Murcia.[10]

Club Career

Eibar: First La Liga Experience

On 31 August 2018, Cucurella joined SD Eibar on loan with a €2 million buyout clause.[12] He made his La Liga debut on 25 September against Espanyol and scored his first goal in the final game of the season against Barcelona in a 2–2 draw.[13][14]

After his loan spell, Eibar activated his purchase clause, but Barcelona swiftly bought him back for €4 million before loaning him to Getafe with an option to buy.[15][16]

Getafe: Establishing Himself in Spain

Cucurella became a key player for Getafe, making his European debut in a 1–0 UEFA Europa League win over Trabzonspor.[18] He played eight matches in the campaign, which ended with a last-16 exit to Inter Milan.[19]

In March 2020, Getafe triggered their option to buy Cucurella for €6 million, making the move permanent.[20][21] His consistent performances drew the attention of top European clubs.

Brighton & Hove Albion: Premier League Arrival

On 31 August 2021, Cucurella joined Brighton & Hove Albion on a five-year contract.[22] He made his debut on 11 September in a 1–0 win over Brentford.[23] His standout performances included a crucial assist in a 1–1 draw against Chelsea[25] and his first goal for the club in a 4–0 victory over Manchester United on 7 May 2022.[26]

At Brighton’s end-of-season awards, Cucurella was named both Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season, underlining his impact in his debut Premier League campaign.[27]

Chelsea: A Big-Money Move

On 5 August 2022, Chelsea signed Cucurella on a six-year contract for an initial £55 million, potentially rising to £62 million—making it Brighton’s record sale.[28][29][30]

He made his Chelsea debut a day later in a 1–0 win against Everton.[31] On 7 March 2023, he was named Player of the Match in a Champions League last-16 win against Borussia Dortmund.[32] He scored his first goal for Chelsea on 17 March 2024 in an FA Cup quarter-final win over Leicester City.[33]

His first Premier League goal came on 15 December 2024, a header in a 2–1 victory over Brentford. However, in the same match, he received his first career red card after a post-match altercation with Brentford’s Kevin Schade.[34]

International Career

Youth and Olympic Success

Cucurella represented Spain at every youth level, captaining the U21s to the semi-finals of the 2021 UEFA European U21 Championship.[35][36] He was also part of Spain’s U23 squad that won the silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.[37][38]

Senior Team and Euro 2024 Triumph

In November 2020, Cucurella received his first senior call-up for UEFA Nations League matches against Switzerland and Germany but remained an unused substitute.[39][40]

His official debut came on 8 June 2021, captaining a youthful Spain side to a 4–0 win over Lithuania.[42]

On 26 March 2024, he earned his second senior cap, playing 90 minutes in a thrilling 3–3 draw with Brazil.[43]

Cucurella was named in Spain’s squad for UEFA Euro 2024 and made his competitive debut in the team’s opening 3–0 win over Croatia.[44][45] He later provided the crucial assist for Mikel Oyarzabal’s winning goal in the final, as Spain defeated England 2–1 to lift the trophy.[46] His performances earned him a spot in the Team of the Tournament.

Playing Style

Cucurella is known for his relentless energy, versatility, and tactical intelligence. Originally a midfielder, he transitioned into a dynamic left-back, excelling in both defensive and attacking duties. His ability to operate as a left-wing-back makes him a valuable asset for club and country.

With his attacking instincts, defensive resilience, and European Championship experience, Cucurella continues to be a vital part of Chelsea and Spain’s footballing future.