Atletico Madrid star reacts to Marc Cucurella’s Real Madrid move: ‘I love him to bits’ | OneFootball

Marc Cucurella’s arrival at Real Madrid has generated plenty of reactions across Spanish football, and one of the most notable has come from Atletico Madrid midfielder Alex Baena.

The pair share a close friendship away from football, and Baena recently posted a message on social media that many interpreted as a playful reference to Cucurella’s switch to Real Madrid.

Writing on Instagram, the Atletico Madrid midfielder shared a photo alongside his Spain teammate and captioned it with the words, “Last month as friends.”

The post gathered significant attention, particularly because of the fierce rivalry between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. 

Baena on Cucurella transfer: friendship beyond club rivalries

Both players are currently representing Spain at the World Cup, where the atmosphere within the national team camp has become one of the tournament’s most talked-about stories.

Alex Baena and Marc Cucurella share a great friendship. (Source: Instagram)

Footballers from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and other clubs continue to spend time together despite competing against each other throughout the season.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Baena was asked about his social media message and the suggestion that he enjoys teasing Real Madrid supporters.

The midfielder immediately made it clear that his relationship with Cucurella remains extremely close.

“(Laughs) I love him to bits. He’s the sort of person you can’t help but like. Personally, I wish him all the best – except when it comes to the club.”

Baena backs Cucurella to succeed at Real Madrid

Baena has nothing but respect for Cucurella. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

Baena praises Cucurella not only as a friend but also as a footballer, insisting that the defender has fully earned the opportunity to join one of the biggest clubs in the world.

The Atletico Madrid midfielder believes the Spain international deserves recognition for his development in recent years and is confident he can thrive at the Santiago Bernabeu.

“I think he deserves this move because he’s proved himself to be a top player, one of the best full-backs in the world too. 

“I hope he does really well, that he and his family are very happy in Madrid, and we’ll see each other round there,” he concluded.