Marc Cucurella Chelsea news takes centre stage after the defender previewed the Blues’ Champions League clash with Barcelona in November. Speaking while on international duty with Spain, Cucurella admitted he is looking forward to the challenge of facing one of Europe’s brightest young stars — Lamine Yamal.
“It’ll be a beautiful and special match, and I hope it’s a tough one for them,” Cucurella told Spanish media. “He’s the hardest winger to stop. He’s a very skilful player; you never know what he’s going to do to you. It’ll be a tough match, but I’ll try to make things as difficult as possible for him.”
The Chelsea defender even joked about the risks of facing his international teammate: “I can’t injure him either, because otherwise I won’t be able to come back to the national team.”
Spain Connection Adds Spice
Barcelona already have six senior internationals in Luis de la Fuente’s Spain squad, and Cucurella admitted he is already feeling the pressure when linking up with his national teammates.
“They’re already saying we’re going to have to face each other; they say they’re going to beat us,” the 27-year-old laughed. “For me, it’ll be a special match; we’re also playing at home, and I think it will be very nice.”
Chelsea’s European Ambition
Enzo Maresca’s side return to the Champions League this season after finishing fourth in the Premier League and winning the UEFA Conference League in 2024/25. Their European campaign begins with a blockbuster trip to the Allianz Arena against Bayern Munich on September 17, before facing reigning La Liga champions Barcelona at Stamford Bridge in November.
Cucurella, who became one of Chelsea’s most consistent performers last season, will be key to their hopes of progressing in Europe.
Cucurella 2024/25 Season Stats
| Stat (2024/25) | Marc Cucurella |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 54 |
| Goals | 7 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Clean Sheets | — |
source: club data – 5 September 2025
The numbers underline his growing influence as both a defensive and attacking presence under Maresca.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William says the Cucurella-Yamal duel will be one of the standout battles of Chelsea’s European campaign:
“Yamal is arguably the most exciting winger in world football at just 18, and Cucurella knows his game well from Spain duty. This adds a fascinating subplot to Chelsea’s clash with Barcelona. For Cucurella, keeping Yamal quiet could be the key to Chelsea taking control at Stamford Bridge.”
He adds:
“Maresca’s Chelsea are still adapting to Champions League level. Facing Bayern and Barcelona in the League Phase is brutal, but Cucurella’s leadership and consistency will be vital. He embodies the competitive spirit Maresca wants in this new era.”
Key Insights
- Cucurella calls Yamal the “hardest winger to stop”.
- Chelsea face Barcelona at Stamford Bridge in November.
- Spain teammates already teasing Cucurella ahead of the clash.
- Chelsea back in Champions League after Conference League triumph.
- Cucurella played 54 games, 7 goals, 4 assists in 2024/25.
What’s Next for Chelsea?
The Blues kick off their Champions League journey away at Bayern Munich before welcoming Barcelona in November. For Cucurella, the clash will be about both pride and performance, as he attempts to halt his national teammate on the biggest stage.
👉 Will Marc Cucurella be able to stop Lamine Yamal when Chelsea host Barcelona in the Champions League?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 6 Sep 2025 09:07
Yaman will be eaten by Cucu at the Bridge
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