Cucurella reveals why he chose Real Madrid over Barcelona and Atletico: ‘Not many players can say…’ | OneFootball

Marc Cucurella has lifted the lid on his transfer to Real Madrid, revealing that the move came together so quickly that he barely had time to consider any alternative destinations.

The Spanish international officially joined Real Madrid this summer, strengthening one of the few positions Jose Mourinho wanted reinforced ahead of the new campaign. 

While several clubs, namely Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, were monitoring his situation, Cucurella admits the decision became straightforward the moment the Santiago Bernabeu club entered the picture.

Speaking to El Mundo, the former Chelsea defender explained that negotiations moved at remarkable speed and that there was never any real doubt in his mind once Real Madrid made their interest clear.

Why Real Madrid was an easy decision

The left-back revealed that the entire operation was completed in little more than a day, allowing him to avoid the uncertainty that often surrounds major transfers.

“I think it all happened in a day and a half or two. As far as I’m concerned, it was much better that way – much quicker, with no headaches.”

Although he considered other possibilities before making a final decision, the defender admitted that Real Madrid’s approach immediately changed everything.

Cucurella has signed for Chelsea. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

“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.”

Addressing his Barcelona background

One of the more interesting aspects of Cucurella’s transfer is his history with Barcelona.

Having progressed through La Masia before establishing himself elsewhere, some supporters questioned how he felt about joining the Catalan club’s biggest rivals. 

The defender, however, made it clear that his decision was driven by ambition and career progression.

“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 team with the most Champions League titles in the world and I hope to win trophies with them and have a wonderful spell there.”

Mourinho’s backing was another factor

Cucurella was also wanted by Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Beyond Real Madrid’s prestige, Jose Mourinho’s role in the transfer appears to have been significant.

The Portuguese coach reportedly identified Cucurella as one of his priority targets and wasted little time making his intentions clear during their first conversation.

“We had a chat and he told me he was really keen to work with me, that I’d settle in very well, and that Real Madrid was a great club. 

“Then, that was it – he wished me all the best for the World Cup and said we’d see each other in Madrid.”

Cucurella was also asked about reports suggesting Mourinho had pushed particularly hard for his signing. Responding to those claims, he said,

“Did he say, ‘It’s either you or I won’t sign any left-back’? No, I don’t know if he said that. 

“He told me he wanted me, and that’s it – I’m very pleased with this trust. I’m looking forward to starting work with him,” he concluded.