Real Madrid new signing praises Lamine Yamal: ‘Don’t think everyone would be able to cope’ | OneFootball

Marc Cucurella has been in the headlines in Spain after he signed for Real Madrid, turning down a chance to return to FC Barcelona as well as refusing Atletico Madrid.

A former La Masia trainee, the Spanish left-back was very much on the agenda for the Blaugrana but ended up choosing to sign for their arch-rivals in a deal worth €55 million plus another €5 million in add-ons.

Now, in an interview with El Mundo (h/t SPORT), Cucurella opened up on his decision to join Real Madrid over Barça and Atletico Madrid, while also praising teenage superstar Lamine Yamal.

Praise for Lamine

One of the players carrying much of Spain’s hopes at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup is Lamine, and Cucurella believes the Barcelona winger has developed significantly since the European Championship.

“I’ve noticed he’s changed a lot since the European Championship; I think he’s much more mature now. He’s been playing professional football for many years now, so he knows what he has to do,” Cucurella said.

“I’m really pleased to be able to enjoy watching him play, to have him in our national team, and I hope he’s made a full recovery from his injury and will be a great help to us.”

The defender was keen to stress that fame has not altered Yamal’s personality.

Lamine Yamal is a superstar at 18. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

“It’s incredible. I went on holiday to Dubai and even came across a poster of Lamine there. But he’s handling it very well, very naturally; he’s still the same biy. More mature, but the same boy he was when he wasn’t such a star or so famous,” he said.

“That’s the best thing about him – the way he handles these things so naturally at his age. And at that age, at 18. I don’t think everyone would be able to cope with that.”

Cucurella on Real Madrid move

Cucurella explained that his transfer to Real Madrid was completed remarkably quickly.

“Yes, absolutely. I think it was all sorted in a day and a half or two. As far as I’m concerned, it was much better, much quicker, and without any headaches,” he said.

The former Chelsea defender acknowledged that he had other options available but insisted Madrid’s interest made the decision straightforward.

Cucurella joined Real Madrid instead of Barcelona. (Photo by Manuel Velasquez/Getty Images)

“When the offer from Madrid came in, I didn’t think twice; I think it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. At the end of the day, playing for Real Madrid is an honour and not many players can say that, so I had no doubts whatsoever.

“I think both I and those around me – my family – were clear that this was an opportunity we couldn’t turn down, and I’m very happy with the decision we’ve made.”

Cucurella’s move is particularly notable given his background in Barcelona’s academy. However, he believes football careers are shaped by different stages and opportunities.

“Life has different stages. In this case, I’ve had to make an important decision and I have no doubts; I think it’s a huge step for me.

“When you’re a child, you dream of playing for the big clubs, and I think Real Madrid is one of them – it’s the club with the most Champions League titles in the world – and I hope to win trophies with them and have a wonderful spell there.”