Spanish · Alella, Spain · Born 22 July 1998Spanish left-back who won Euro 2024 with Spain and established himself as one of Europe's most promising defensive talents at Chelsea.
Marc Cucurella Saseta was born in Alella, Spain in 1998. Barcelona's La Masia produced him — loaned out for development — before Brighton paid £15 million and Chelsea paid £62 million for him in 2022. His Euro 2024 handball in the semi-final against France — not given by the referee despite clear contact — was one of the tournament's most discussed refereeing decisions and generated enormous controversy in France. Spain won the game and eventually the tournament. He was part of the Spanish squad that won Euro 2024 — redemption for any controversy that preceded it. His work rate, pressing intensity and technical quality at left-back make him one of the most dynamic defenders in the Premier League. His curly hair became one of football's most recognisable visual signatures. His relationship with Chelsea supporters, initially mixed given his price tag, improved significantly as his performances became more consistent.
Key player in Spain's Euro 2024 victory
How They Played
Attacking left-back with pace, crossing ability and defensive versatility
Career Honours
- Euro (Spain 2024)
- Premier League (2021 Brighton)
- Champions League (2021 squad)
- Euro 2024
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barcelona | 2007–2018 | 2 | 2 | #27 |
| Getafe | 2020–2021 | 35 | 1 | — |
| Chelsea | 2022–2024 | 78 | 1 | — |
| Eibar | 2018–2020 | 54 | 2 | — |
| Brighton | 2021–2022 | 38 | 1 | — |
 Spain | — | 27 | 1 | — |
Spanish Athletes