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PREMIER LEAGUE

Marc Cucurella: “The level of MLS is getting higher”

The Chelsea player spoke exclusively with AS USA about the club’s upcoming tour to the United States this summer.

The Chelsea player spoke exclusively with AS USA about the club's upcoming tour to the United States this summer.
Gaspafotos/MB MediaGetty Images

Chelsea aims to leave the 2022/23 Premier League season in the past as they fell a long, long way short of expectations and will finish the season far from the European positions, getting nowhere near to challenging for the Champions League or Europa League next year. The focus therefore shifts towards getting back to competing at the top end next year, with their temporary boss, club legend Frank Lampard, stepping aside and Mauricio Pochettino taking over.

Pochettino’s Chelsea debut is expected to take place in the United States, where the team will hold their preseason preparations this year. Several other Premier League teams will also compete in various cities across the United States.

Chelsea will arrive in the United States in July

Chelsea have matches scheduled in Atlanta, Harrison, Orlando, Philadelphia and Landover. Marc Cucurella, one of many relatively new recruits, was another Spanish addition for the London-based team, and he spoke exclusively with AS USA about the significance of playing in front of fans who, for various reasons, cannot watch them live in London.

Rodrygo y Marc Cucurella durante una acción del encuentro.
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Rodrygo and Marc Cucurella clash.DYLAN MARTINEZREUTERS

“We are genuinely thrilled, and it’s a wonderful experience. Being able to perform in front of people who don’t usually have the opportunity to see us and who truly love football is a great feeling,” remarked the Spaniard.

“I previously experienced a preseason tour with Barcelona, and I can say it creates an amazing atmosphere. People thoroughly enjoy it, and ultimately, it adds to our overall experience.”

Cucurella also shared his thoughts on the United States’ national team and Premier League players, including teammates Christian Pulisic and Gabriel Slonina.

“They are truly talented and perform exceptionally well. There are also a couple of players at Leeds who have significant playing time. They demonstrated excellent performance in the World Cup and have been instrumental in promoting soccer.”

Cucurella on MLS

Regarding Major League Soccer, Cucurella was optimistic about its evolution.

“There are Spanish players who have recently joined MLS, and the level of play is continuously improving. I believe it offers a positive experience. Football is advancing, and top-notch players aspire to experience that growth,” the 24-year old said.

London (United Kingdom), 18/04/2023.- Real Madrid's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois (R) in action against Marc Cucurella of Chelsea (L) during the UEFA Champions League quarter final, 2nd leg match between Chelsea and Real Madrid in London, Britain, 18 April 2023. (Liga de Campeones, Reino Unido, Londres) EFE/EPA/TOLGA AKMEN
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London (United Kingdom), 18/04/2023.- Real Madrid's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois (R) in action against Marc Cucurella of Chelsea (L) during the UEFA Champions League quarter final, 2nd leg match between Chelsea and Real Madrid in London, Britain, 18 April 2023. (Liga de Campeones, Reino Unido, Londres) EFE/EPA/TOLGA AKMEN TOLGA AKMENEFE

“All of this contributes to raising awareness about MLS and, above all, elevating the overall level. The United States is a fantastic country where people genuinely enjoy sports, and it’s crucial for football to continue thriving.”

Cucurella and his Chelsea teammates end this Premier League season with games against Manchester United (Thursday) and Newcastle United (Sunday), the teams in third and fourth place in the table.