Chelsea new signing Marc Cucurella delighted with Premier League debut season cried after Manchester United goal but dreams of Barcelona return

In what has been an exciting and busy transfer window, another unexpected saga is now over.

Marc Cucurella, who appeared to be heading to Manchester City earlier this summer, has joined Chelsea.

The 24-year-old completed his move on Friday, ahead of the Blues’ first game of the season against Everton, beating Manchester City at defender.

A year ago it would have seemed crazy to see two of the Premier League’s biggest clubs in a tussle for the defender who plied his trade at La Liga side Getafe until deadline day in the summer 2021.

But Cucurella’s impressive form last season saw many heads turn in his direction. So why all the fuss?

The stats show he’s an assured player, but it’s what he offers in the future that undoubtedly gives him an edge.

Cucurella created 40 goalscoring chances from open play in the Premier League last season, which is more than any other Chelsea player except Reece James (42).

Stats don’t paint the full picture of a player’s performance – one goal and one assist all season isn’t exactly a sparkling comeback for a modern full-back.

But any Brighton fan will give a rave review when asked about Cucurella’s performance last season, which culminated when he scored in the Seagulls’ 4-0 thrashing of Manchester United, the goal making player an emotional figure.

Cucurella himself probably couldn’t have imagined having to choose between City and Chelsea, but comments previously made by the player suggest he would snub both teams in the blink of an eye for Barcelona, ​​where he started his career.

Cucurella, who has just one senior Barca appearance under his belt, told Spanish publication Sport in November 2021: “At the end of the day, I’ve been there for many years at Barca and we could say that it It’s my house and my family or that of my wife, who is from Barcelona.

“I have a thorn in my side because I made my debut for the first team but I was never able to play at the Camp Nou and I think it’s something I would like to do before I retire. or quit football.”

With Chelsea already missing Robert Lewandowski, Raphinh and Jules Kounde, they’ll be praying that Barca don’t decide to hurt them again by making a move for their former player.