Chelsea’s left-back Marc Cucurella recently underwent ankle surgery, causing a setback that journalist Paul Brown believes could significantly impact the player’s future at Stamford Bridge.
Mauricio Pochettino, the Blues’ head coach, has sparingly utilized the full-back throughout the 2023/24 season and is unlikely to have him available for the foreseeable future, sidelined for at least two months.
Cucurella, who arrived at Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2022 for £60 million, hoped for a revival under Pochettino but has struggled for both playing time and form, casting doubt on his continuation at the club.
His time at Stamford Bridge has been disappointing since his arrival, encountering difficulties adapting to various coaching styles and the team’s system. His performance drew criticism from fans in February 2023, notably during a 1-1 draw with West Ham United.
During the summer transfer window of 2023, Chelsea considered loaning Cucurella to Manchester United. However, negotiations fell through when the Red Devils declined to pay the £7 million loan fee and pursued Tottenham Hotspur’s Sergio Reguilon instead.
Cucurella’s situation worsened after sustaining an injury during Chelsea’s 2-0 loss to Everton on December 10th, requiring surgery on his ankle and potentially sidelining him until at least February 2024.
Journalist Paul Brown acknowledged Cucurella’s decent performances this season but emphasized his need for consistent game time. He suggested that if Cucurella can’t secure a place in the team upon his return, it might be in his best interest to move on from Chelsea, given the transfer hasn’t panned out as hoped.