Spain’s Marc Cucurella has struggled to replicate his national team form at Real Madrid, despite a €55m summer move, with managers and players citing a “process” for adaptation.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente praised Marc Cucurella as “sensational” after his 4–1 Nations League win over Croatia, highlighting how the defender thrives in the national team setup. Yet, Real Madrid fans remain skeptical, with Cucurella contributing to the club’s shaky defensive record this season. The 28-year-old, who joined Real Madrid from Chelsea in a deal reportedly valued at €55 million ($62 million), has faced criticism for underperforming compared to his international standards.
Cucurella’s Performance Gap
Cucurella’s standout Nations League display against Croatia—five defensive contributions, six duels won, and two chances created—contrasts sharply with his club form. Real Madrid’s defensive frailties have dominated the 2026–27 season, with just one clean sheet in eight games. De la Fuente noted that players like Cucurella often “transform” when representing Spain, attributing it to the team’s “style” and “comfort” for its stars. With us, something happens that we see with many players,
he said. When they join the national team, they transform. Sometimes they show a level far superior to what they show at their club, perhaps because they feel very comfortable here, because our style suits them perfectly.
Cucurella acknowledged the challenge, stating, I have played fewer than 10 matches.
There are things to improve, but I'm going to give my all to bring the same version of myself to Madrid that I do with the national team.
Spain’s Team Dynamics Boost Performance
De la Fuente’s comments align with a broader trend of players excelling for Spain over their clubs. The Spain manager suggested that the national team’s “core group” and manager have been together for many years, fostering an environment where players feel very comfortable.
This dynamic has left Real Madrid fans questioning whether Cucurella’s €55m price tag will pay off. The club’s struggles, including shaky displays against Atlético Madrid, Elche and Real Betis, have intensified scrutiny. Cucurella, however, remains optimistic, stating, Everything is a process. With the national team, the core group has been together for many years, and so has the manager. At Madrid, we have just started with a new coach, so it is too early to say.
Cucurella Defends Mourinho’s Tactics
Cucurella also addressed criticism of Real Madrid’s activity levels, countering claims that the team lacks energy. Honestly, I was surprised to see the data,
he said, adding, While I wouldn’t agree that we maintain possession for long periods, we certainly run a lot on the field.
He attributed the negative perception to recent losses, arguing that if we had won the matches, no one would have pointed out our lack of activity. Instead, headlines might have read something like ‘efficient despite running less.’
Despite these remarks, Real Madrid’s defensive struggles persist. The club’s new signings, including Cucurella, Ibrahima Konaté, and Denzel Dumfries, are still integrating under Mourinho’s system.
Cucurella Nominated for Ballon d’Or
Cucurella’s international success has earned him a Ballon d’Or nomination, alongside Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé. If it was up to me to vote, I would vote for myself,
he joked, though he added, But no, two of the candidates to win it are team-mates, so whoever wins it, I will be happy.
For Real Madrid, the focus remains on unlocking Cucurella’s potential. The club’s need for a reliable left back—especially against top-tier wingers—has intensified as the season progresses. With the Clásico looming, fans hope Mourinho can replicate the “magic formula” that elevates players like Cucurella in a Spain shirt.