De la Fuente Hails Cucurella After Spain’s 4-1 Win Over Croatia
Marc Cucurella starred as Spain swept Croatia aside 4-1, with the Real Madrid left-back producing the authority and attacking confidence that have been missing from parts of his club campaign.
Spain boss hails Cucurella after Croatia win
Cucurella’s display for Spain recalled the level he reached during his impressive World Cup run. He was a major influence down the left in the victory over Croatia, looking assured in possession and far more settled defensively than in recent matches for Madrid.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente singled out the defender after full time and suggested the international environment brings the best out of several players.
- “He is sensational,” De la Fuente said of Cucurella.
- The coach said that “something happens” when players report for Spain duty.
- He added that some members of the squad reach “a level far superior” to their club form because they feel comfortable with Spain and suit its playing style.
Real Madrid form under growing scrutiny
The contrast is increasingly uncomfortable for Cucurella. He joined Real Madrid from Chelsea in a major summer deal, arriving with a reputation as one of the game’s leading left-backs and immediate pressure to deliver at the Bernabeu.
His start to the season was respectable, but defensive concerns have become harder to ignore. Atletico Madrid repeatedly targeted Cucurella’s side during the Madrid derby, exposing his flank through much of a difficult night for the Spain international.
Madrid’s tactical demands have so far proved a tougher fit than De la Fuente’s setup. Cucurella has at times looked short of the defensive control required in the biggest club fixtures, turning a high-profile move into a demanding first season.
Carreras rivalry raises stakes
Competition for the left-back role is adding to the pressure. Real Madrid had invested heavily in Alvaro Carreras only a year before Cucurella arrived, and Carreras has delivered steady performances when given limited opportunities.
- Cucurella must translate his Spain form into consistent club displays.
- Another defensive setback could strengthen Carreras’ case for more starts.
- The former Chelsea player is fighting to retain Jose Mourinho’s confidence and his place in the starting XI.
What happens next is clear: Cucurella needs to carry the composure shown against Croatia back into Madrid’s domestic fixtures, or risk seeing Carreras take control of the position.
