‘I wouldn’t have sacked Maresca,’ admits Chelsea star in shock interview | OneFootball

Marc Cucurella has reflected on a range of topics including Chelsea’s struggles this season, the atmosphere within the Spain squad and his hopes for the upcoming World Cup.

Speaking while on international duty at the Spanish Football Federation’s headquarters in Las Rozas, the left-back described the national team environment as a welcome break from club football.

“Coming to the national team is a breath of fresh air for everyone,” Cucurella said. “Sometimes it feels like the games are not even the most important thing because you just want to spend time with these people.”

The defender praised the atmosphere created by Spain manager Luis de la Fuente.

Cucurella said the strong relationships within the squad have helped maintain a positive environment.

“We have created such strong relationships that the week passes before you even realise it,” he said.

That unity has contributed to Spain’s recent success, including their victory at the European Championship in 2024.

Despite the positive mood with Spain, Cucurella admitted the situation at Chelsea has been difficult in recent months.

The London club have endured a challenging run of results across domestic and European competitions.

One of the most painful moments came in the Champions League when Chelsea suffered a heavy aggregate defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

“We lacked experience,” Cucurella said when reflecting on the defeat. “For many players it was the first time playing matches of that level and we paid the price.”

He added that the team struggled to manage key moments in the tie.

“We should have handled it better because there was still a return game to play,” he explained.

Cucurella also spoke about Chelsea’s long-term strategy under their current ownership.

The club have focused heavily on recruiting young players as part of their rebuilding process.

While the defender understands the strategy, he admitted that balancing youth with experience remains important.

“We have a good core of players and the foundations are there,” he said. “But to fight for big trophies you need more.”

The Spain international also addressed the managerial changes that have affected Chelsea this season.

Enzo Maresca left the club earlier in the campaign before Liam Rosenior took charge in January.

Cucurella acknowledged the impact of Maresca’s departure on the squad.

“The moment Maresca left had a big impact on us,” he said. “If you asked me, I would not have made that decision.”

However, the defender also praised Rosenior’s work since arriving.

“Liam is a very good person and has been great at handling the group,” Cucurella added. “He has good football ideas but we do not always have time to train them because we play every three days.”

Away from club football, Cucurella is now focused on Spain’s ambitions at the upcoming World Cup.

Spain will face Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde in the group stage.

Cucurella believes the European champions have earned the right to be considered among the favourites.

“Yes, I think so,” he said. “We were a bit overlooked at the last Euros but now people believe in us.”

He also highlighted England as one of Spain’s strongest potential rivals.

“They have a great squad and now Thomas Tuchel will give them even better tactical structure,” Cucurella said.

For Cucurella, the chance to play at the World Cup remains a major motivation.

“Everyone speaks about what it means to be there,” he said. “I just cannot wait to be part of it.”