Marc Cucurella explains Chelsea exit and sends message to Barcelona fans

Marc Cucurella has opened up on his decision to leave Chelsea for Real Madrid, insisting he never hesitated once the opportunity to join the Spanish giants presented itself.

The Spain international completed his move to the Santiago Bernabéu earlier this week, bringing an end to a four-year spell at Stamford Bridge.

The transfer came as a surprise to many observers given the defender's recent comments about his happiness at Chelsea and his excitement about working under Xabi Alonso.

However, Cucurella has now revealed just how quickly events unfolded behind the scenes.

Speaking while on international duty at the World Cup, the left-back explained that negotiations progressed at remarkable speed.

"Yes, absolutely. I think it was all done in a day and a half or two. Much better for me, much faster, without any headaches. It's finally closed, and I'm very happy."

Cucurella revealed he was informed on a Sunday afternoon that the deal was effectively complete, with only final paperwork and signatures remaining.

"I think it was Sunday afternoon, more or less. That's when they told me that everything was more or less done, that there were some paperwork issues and signatures left, but nothing serious."

"I think we had it all done in a day or a day and a half."

The speed of the transfer highlights how determined Real Madrid were to secure the defender and avoid a prolonged transfer saga.

Prior to the move, reports linked the former Chelsea defender with several major European clubs, including interest from Spain and England.

Yet Cucurella insists there was only one destination once Real Madrid entered the picture.

"Well, in the end there were different options, but when the Real Madrid offer came along, I didn't hesitate. I think it's a unique opportunity."

The 27-year-old admitted that both he and his family viewed the move as impossible to reject.

"Playing for Real Madrid is an honour, and not many players can say that, so I had no doubts."

"I think both I and my family and those around me were clear that it was an opportunity we couldn't refuse."

Few clubs possess the pull that Real Madrid continue to enjoy. Even established stars often find it difficult to reject the opportunity to represent the most successful club in European football.

One of the more intriguing aspects of the transfer is Cucurella's connection to Barcelona.

The defender came through the Catalan club's academy system before leaving to pursue regular first-team football elsewhere.

As a result, some Barcelona supporters have questioned how a La Masia graduate could join their fiercest rivals.

Cucurella addressed those concerns directly. "I tell them that 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 big step for me."

The Spain international also reiterated his ambition to compete for the biggest trophies in the game. "When you're a kid, you dream of playing for big teams, and I think Real Madrid is one of them."

"It's the team with the most Champions League in the world, and I hope to win titles with them and have a great time there."

Chelsea chapter comes to an end

Cucurella leaves Chelsea after a mixed but ultimately successful spell in west London.

Despite facing criticism during parts of his time at Stamford Bridge, he developed into an important figure for both club and country and re-established himself as one of Europe's most reliable left-backs.

Now he faces arguably the biggest challenge of his career as he attempts to establish himself at Real Madrid.

Cucurella remains focused on Spain's World Cup campaign before beginning preparations for life at Real Madrid.

Once the tournament concludes, attention will turn to how quickly he can adapt to his new surroundings and establish himself in one of football's most demanding environments.

Can Marc Cucurella become Real Madrid's long-term solution at left-back after leaving Chelsea?