Chelsea Defender Opens Up: ‘I’m Not a Robot’ and Doesn’t Want to Play Football
Spain left-back Marc Cucurella has expressed his frustration with the demanding schedule he faces.
“We are all exhausted because the schedule is extremely tough, and we are not robots. Just look at how many injuries footballers are suffering nowadays. The Spanish national team has already lost Carvajal and Rodri, which is really unfortunate. The new game schedule is to blame for all of this,” said the Chelsea defender.
Cucurella has featured in seven matches for Chelsea so far this season.
The left-back was part of the Spain squad that defeated England in the Euro 2024 final in July and gained attention with his celebratory song, which appeared to take a dig at Manchester City star Erling Haaland.
Cucurella initially found it challenging to prove his worth at Stamford Bridge following his big-money transfer from Brighton, but over the last two seasons, he has become a key player for the club.
The 26-year-old started 20 Premier League matches last season and carried that form into the European Championship, where he started six of Spain’s seven games.
His performances earned him a spot in UEFA’s Team of the Tournament, and he played a role in Mikel Oyarzabal’s late winner against England in the final in Berlin.
Cucurella feels that away fans in the Premier League target him quickly, although he suggests it’s “normal” given that English supporters may feel “hurt.”
“You have more impact; people know you more. Being the Euro champion is historic, and you will always carry that with you,” he told Spanish outlet COPE.
“I’ve already been suspended for five yellow cards, and I’ve committed few fouls; they’re going after me a bit. They jump on me quickly, especially when we play away. It’s normal, we won, I was involved in the goal, I’m playing at their home… it’s normal, they’re hurt.”
Chelsea Defender Opens Up: ‘I’m Not a Robot’ and Doesn’t Want to Play Football