Marc Cucurella has spoken to AS while away on international duty with Spain. The Real Madrid left-back discussed the team’s start to the season, the areas that still need improvement, Vinicius Junior’s defensive contribution, José Mourinho, Kylian Mbappé and even his attempt to convince Rodri to join Madrid during the summer.
On Real Madrid’s start to the season
“Before the international break, we didn’t finish in the best possible way. Everything is a process. Obviously, everyone would love to win every game by several goals, but the most important thing is to start building a solid foundation. The decisive part of the season comes in the final months.”
Cucurella believes patience is required as Real Madrid continue adapting to a new project and integrating several new players.
“This year, everything is happening very quickly. Normally, one month is basically the length of a pre-season, with friendly matches that allow you to get to know your teammates and regain your rhythm. We still have things to improve and things we are doing badly, but there are also many positive aspects.”
On Real Madrid’s problems after losing possession
The Spanish defender also addressed the team’s difficulties in defensive transition, particularly when attacking players lose the ball high up the pitch.
“If I put myself in Vinicius or Mbappé’s position, every time I received the ball I would try to attack like an animal and score goals. I’m speaking as a defender. Sometimes that means there is too much distance between us, but it isn’t their fault. It is also our responsibility. We need to push up more quickly.”
“These are things we still have to improve if we want to become the team we want to be.”
On Vinicius’ defensive work
Cucurella praised Vinicius for the effort he has been making without the ball.
“I like what I’m seeing and the effort he is putting in because defending is perhaps not his main quality or something that comes naturally to him. I can see that he is working for the team and trying to contribute. That is a good starting point.”
On José Mourinho
The former Chelsea defender admitted Mourinho has made a strong impression on him since his arrival in Madrid.
“He surprised me. I knew him from watching him on television. He is a very good person and he is extremely close to the players. So far, he is always in a good mood. I hope we can enjoy a very successful period together.”
On Real Madrid being the La Liga team that runs the least
“That surprised me. I feel like we run a lot, but the numbers are there. People are talking about it because we lost the derby and lost against Betis. If we had won every game, nobody would be talking about how little we run.”
“They would probably say, ‘They don’t run much, but they are very efficient.’ We need to improve, win matches, and statistics can also help us progress.”
On trying to convince Rodri to join Real Madrid
Le Barça est la deuxième équipe de Liga qui court le plus avec 104.64 km par match. C’est 20km de plus que le Real Madrid. pic.twitter.com/zjk4SvkeG7
— Actualité – Barça (@ActualiteBarca) September 21, 2026
“I sent him a little message before everything became official, telling him that I hoped we would become teammates. In the end, he made a different decision. He replied with a fairly standard message and chose another path.”
“I’m happy for him. I just hope he doesn’t have too much success at Barcelona, because that would mean we are the ones enjoying the success instead.”
On the 2026 Ballon d’Or and Mbappé
“I’m not going to pick a side. Fortunately or unfortunately, I play alongside two or three players who are currently candidates for the Ballon d’Or. If a Spaniard wins it, it will be deserved. And if Kylian wins it, I’ll also be happy for a teammate who has achieved incredible scoring numbers and won the Golden Boot. That is not easy.”
Cucurella was particularly complimentary about Mbappé’s achievements.
“I would sign up immediately to achieve what Mbappé has done, with my eyes closed. People sometimes make it look easy for him because he scores so many goals, but we also have to recognise how difficult it is to produce performances like that consistently.”
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