Spain defender Marc Cucurella delivered on his bold pre-tournament promise by getting a striking new tattoo featuring a familiar face, a tribute to his team’s historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In the run-up to the tournament, Cucurella declared he would immortalize his coach’s face in ink if Spain lifted the trophy.
True to his promise, he followed through after Spain’s 1-0 victory over Argentina on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Cucurella’s defensive leadership played a huge role in Spain’s win, helping the national team secure its second World Cup title.
After the final, Cucurella took to social media to share a series of before-and-after photos documenting the tattooing process. The detailed artwork features national team
coach Luis de la Fuente holding the World Cup trophy, with the number 26 displayed behind him to commemorate the year of Spain’s victory.
Cucurella’s tattoo reveal came shortly after he posted an emotional farewell video to Chelsea fans, marking the end of his time at Stamford Bridge as he prepares for a new chapter with Real Madrid. His transfer to the Spanish giants was officially announced on June 15.
The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Spain's Marc Cucurella keeps promise with tattoo of coach after World Cup win
