Cucurella jokes he would vote for himself in Ballon d’Or race

Spain defender Marc Cucurella has joked that he would cast his Ballon d’Or vote for himself, while insisting he will be pleased whichever of his Real Madrid team-mates wins the award.

Ballon d’Or joke as team-mates compete

Cucurella was asked about the upcoming ceremony and opted for a playful answer rather than backing one specific candidate.

“If it were my vote, I would choose myself,” he said, drawing laughter before turning serious about the two nominees from his club.

He said the final choice belongs to the voters and added that the successful candidate may owe him a small present for his part in helping them reach that position.

• Cucurella has two Real Madrid colleagues among the Ballon d’Or candidates.
• He said he wants the most deserving player to take the prize.
• The defender expects to be happy with the result regardless of which team-mate wins.

Spain form and Madrid adaptation

The 27-year-old also addressed the difference between his performances for Spain and his early displays at Madrid following his major move to the club.

Cucurella said he has played far more regularly within Spain’s set-up, while his time at Madrid has been limited by a short pre-season and a new tactical environment. He believes he has made fewer than 10 appearances for his club so far.

He accepted that he must improve and build a stronger understanding with his Madrid colleagues, but said he is determined to reproduce his Spain level in club football through hard work.

Growing Madrid presence in the squad

Cucurella welcomed the increasing number of Madrid players in Luis de la Fuente’s Spain group, arguing that a club of Madrid’s stature should be well represented internationally.

He noted that Madrid’s involvement in the national side had been limited in recent periods, but believes that is beginning to change. Cucurella also pointed to young prospects in the club’s academy who train with the senior squad and could eventually earn more prominent roles.

De la Fuente offered a simple assessment of the left-back, describing him as both an excellent person and an excellent footballer.

Public affection

Cucurella admitted he cannot fully explain why he has become so popular with Spain supporters, although he suggested his distinctive appearance may help him stand out.

He said he appreciates the affection he receives away from the pitch as well as recognition for his football, adding that making supporters happy is especially meaningful to him.