Enzo Maresca has recently lavished praise on Marc Cucurella ahead of Chelsea’s upcoming clash with Brighton, emphasizing how the Spanish defender has not only elevated his own game but also improved the performance of those around him. This marks a significant turnaround in Cucurella’s Chelsea career, which had a rocky start following his high-profile move from Brighton in 2022.
Chelsea invested over £60 million to bring Cucurella to Stamford Bridge, hoping he would replicate the stellar form he showcased at Brighton. However, his debut season with the Blues proved challenging. Struggling to find his footing, Cucurella faced criticism from fans, some even resorting to boos as Chelsea endured a disappointing campaign that saw them finish a dismal 12th in the Premier League.
The turbulent season led to speculation about Cucurella’s future, with a potential loan move to Manchester United on the cards last summer. Despite the rumors, Cucurella remained at Chelsea, determined to prove his worth. As the season progressed, he began to find his rhythm, ending the campaign on a much stronger note, which laid the foundation for a resurgence in his Chelsea career.
Maresca, who has become an ardent admirer of Cucurella, highlighted the player’s impressive adaptability and resilience. One notable instance occurred during a tough match against Aston Villa, where Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino made a tactical shift, repositioning Cucurella into a midfield role when the team had possession. Cucurella quickly adapted to this new role, showcasing his versatility and tactical intelligence.
This newfound form didn’t just benefit Chelsea; it also carried over to the international stage. Cucurella played a pivotal role for Spain in their successful Euro 2024 campaign, further cementing his status as a key player both for club and country. His performances have seen him become one of the first names on Chelsea’s team sheet, securing his place as the club’s first-choice left-back and evolving into a critical figure in Pochettino’s squad.
At 26 years old, Cucurella has managed to turn his Chelsea career around dramatically, transforming from a player under fire to a fan favorite. His tenacity and commitment have not gone unnoticed, particularly by Maresca, who spoke highly of him before the upcoming match against Brighton, his former club.
“Marc is very important to us,” Maresca stated during a press conference. “He possesses qualities that are rare and difficult to find in many players. What’s impressive about Marc is not just his individual brilliance but how he elevates the team as a whole. He’s constantly communicating, always demanding more from his teammates.”
Maresca went on to explain the value of having players like Cucurella in the squad: “When you have five, six, or seven players like Marc, who are always talking, always pushing others to improve, it’s incredibly valuable. I’m very happy with him, and what he brings to this team.”
Cucurella was given a rest during Chelsea’s Carabao Cup match against Barrow earlier this week, a decision likely made to keep him fresh for the crucial Premier League match against Brighton. As Chelsea aims for their third consecutive league victory and to secure Maresca’s first league win at Stamford Bridge, Cucurella is expected to return to the starting lineup, ready to face his former club with renewed confidence and determination.
This upcoming match will not only be a test of Chelsea’s ambitions but also a personal milestone for Cucurella, who will look to continue his impressive form and further solidify his status as one of Chelsea’s most important players. His journey from a struggling new signing to a key player underlines his resilience and the vital role he now plays in th
e team’s success.