Marc Cucurella acknowledges that he remains deeply unpopular among many German football supporters following the European Championship in 2024, SPORT1 reported.
The Real Madrid defender addressed the persistent booing he faces whenever he plays against or in Germany during an interview with the Spanish radio station Cadena COPE.
Unresolved Handball Fallout from Euro 2024
The animosity stems directly from a quarterfinal match at Euro 2024, where Cucurella clearly blocked a shot with his hand inside the penalty area during the game against Germany, but no penalty was awarded. Germany ultimately lost the fixture and was eliminated from the tournament.
SPORT1 noted that the incident left deep frustration among DFB supporters, who continue to direct their anger at the Spanish international.
They remind me of it every time,
the 28-year-old said regarding the controversial passage of play.
Cucurella Blames the Official While Laughing Off Abuse
Despite the hostile reception, Cucurella responds to the backlash with humor. He maintained that the controversial non-call was without doubt
the fault of the referee, rather than his own.
I don’t know why, they took it out on me and, well, that’s just how it is,
he explained to Cadena COPE, before adding with a laugh, I know I can’t play in Germany. I am very beloved there.
SPORT1 reported that the hostility has followed him to club competitions as well. When Real Madrid defeated RB Leipzig 4–1 in the Champions League, traveling German fans loudly whistled and jeered the defender from the stands at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Clasico Confidence and Defense Against Yamal
Sportbild.bild.de reported that Cucurella recently leaned into that same resilient mindset ahead of El Clásico, where he faced Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal. The Real Madrid defender recalled telling the 19-year-old rival before kickoff that he would start the first match but sit on the bench for the second because he intended to eat him up.
On the pitch, Cucurella successfully kept Yamal in check with a strong defensive performance that provided a timely boost to his confidence following a dip in form. Sportbild.bild.de noted that after the final whistle, the veteran defender remained quiet, stating simply, I don’t need to say anything. I’m satisfied. We won, and I played a good game.
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