Barcelona rejected him, now Real Madrid get to reap the rewards of new global star, Marc Cucurella

Real Madrid officially completed the signing of Marc Cucurella on June 15, the very same day Spain kicked off its World Cup campaign. The total fee reached around $64 million, and despite already having three left backs in the squad, the club decided not to wait. Instead, it secured one of the world’s best players in the position before the tournament had even begun.

That decision now looks inspired.

Cucurella’s performances throughout the World Cup have only reinforced the feeling that Madrid’s executives pulled off one of the smartest moves of the summer. He arrives at the Santiago Bernabéu as a world champion, with his reputation higher than ever and his market value significantly boosted. Had Real Madrid waited until after the tournament, negotiations with Chelsea would almost certainly have become more complicated and potentially far more expensive.

The club accepted the obvious risk. A serious injury or disappointing World Cup could have cast doubt over the transfer. Instead, everything went according to plan. Cucurella will now enjoy a well-earned vacation before reporting to Real Madrid in the second week of August, where he will meet his new teammates along with José Mourinho and his coaching staff.

Mourinho wanted more than a left back

Following the announcement of his move, Cucurella revealed details of his first conversation with Mourinho during his introductory press conference.

The Spanish international admitted he was surprised by the Portuguese coach’s remarkable memory, recalling specific moments from their most recent meeting, when Chelsea defeated Benfica 1-0 during the 2024-25 Champions League group stage. Even more importantly, Mourinho made it clear he valued far more than Cucurella’s performances on the field.

The manager was equally interested in what the defender could bring inside the locker room.

That comes as little surprise after the World Cup. Throughout Spain’s triumphant campaign, Cucurella emerged as one of the emotional leaders of the squad, combining outstanding performances with a personality that helped unite the group. Those qualities were just as attractive to Madrid as his defensive ability.

The club was looking for leadership, character and someone capable of improving the atmosphere inside a dressing room that ended last season surrounded by controversy. On and off the field, Cucurella fit that profile perfectly.

From Barcelona academy exit to Real Madrid star

Few players will remember the summer of 2026 more fondly than Cucurella.

Within a matter of weeks, he signed for the most successful club in European soccer and fulfilled every player’s dream by lifting the World Cup.

His journey has been anything but straightforward. Unable to establish himself after coming through Barcelona’s academy, he rebuilt his career at Eibar under José Luis Mendilibar before impressing during a loan spell at Getafe, where he played a key role in the club’s Europa League run.

A move to Brighton opened the door to Chelsea, where his relentless work rate, athleticism and attacking contributions made him a fan favorite. During his time in London, he recorded nine goals and 13 assists in 163 appearances.

Now he begins a new chapter in Madrid with one objective still missing from his résumé: winning the UEFA Champions League.

Looking back, Los Blancos’ decision to sign him before the World Cup now appears perfectly timed. They accepted the uncertainty, but their gamble could hardly have paid off more handsomely. Cucurella returns from the tournament as one of its standout performers, while Madrid can already feel they secured a player whose value has only continued to rise.

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