«If it were up to me to vote, I would vote for myself,» Marc Cucurella joked when asked about his Ballon d’Or nomination, though he quickly acknowledged his club and international peers in the running.
Cucurella Defends Mourinho Amid Real Madrid’s Slow La Liga Start
Real Madrid finds itself six points behind league leaders Barcelona after the opening seven matches of the season, following notable defeats to Real Betis and Atlético de Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu. The slow start under the returning José Mourinho has placed immediate pressure on Los Blancos, with summer signing Marc Cucurella bearing a share of the criticism from supporters following his 55 million euro transfer.
Speaking to reporters, Cucurella asked for patience as the squad attempts to grasp the manager’s tactical philosophy without the benefit of a normal summer training schedule. «It’s all a process,» the defender stated, adding that the team has barely played ten matches together under the new technical staff.
Contrasting Fortunes Between Club and Country
While Cucurella has encountered domestic turbulence in Madrid, his performances on the international stage continue to earn high praise. Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente recently described the left-back as «sensational» in the red shirt, pointing to a national team setup built over years of continuity.
Cucurella acknowledged the stark difference between his stellar form during Spain’s UEFA Nations League fixtures and his club output, promising supporters he will replicate his international level in La Liga once fully adapted to his new teammates. «Basically we didn’t have a pre-season, and besides, it’s a new club for me,» Cucurella explained.
Ballon d’Or Recognition Amid Domestic Pressure
Despite the scrutiny at club level, Cucurella’s overall body of work over the past year has secured him a nomination for the Ballon d’Or. He shares the shortlist with international teammate Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid club colleague Kylian Mbappé.
«Two of the candidates to win it are my teammates, so whoever wins it, I will be happy,» Cucurella said regarding the upcoming award ceremony.
Real Madrid Cost for Cucurella and League Standing
How much did Marc Cucurella cost Real Madrid?
Real Madrid acquired Marc Cucurella for a transfer fee of 55 million euros to bolster their defensive options under José Mourinho.
What did Luis de la Fuente say about Cucurella?
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente praised the defender as «sensacional» for his performances with the national team during their UEFA Nations League matches.
How far behind the La Liga leaders are Real Madrid?
After seven matches played in the domestic campaign, Real Madrid sit six points behind league leaders Barcelona following early losses to Real Betis and Atlético de Madrid.
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