Marc Cucurella has opened up about his arrival at Real Madrid, describing the move as an opportunity he simply could not turn down and reflecting on what it will mean to finally experience the Santiago Bernabéu as a home player.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV, Cucurella made clear that his decision to join the club was an easy one.
“I think it’s very hard to turn down the opportunity to play for a club like this. I didn’t have any doubts.”
For Cucurella, the move also represents the chance to step into
an environment he has previously only experienced from the outside. Real Madrid’s famous European nights — and everything surrounding them — have long been familiar to him as a spectator.
“I’ve seen all those magical nights as a spectator. To have the chance to experience it firsthand, to be able to be a part of something great, I think it’s a huge responsibility and a wonderful challenge.”
The Spanish international is now particularly eager for his first appearance at the Bernabéu in a Real Madrid shirt.
“I’m looking forward to playing our first home game and meeting the fans.”
“I’ve played at the Bernabéu as a visitor, including a game with the national team (against Brazil in March 2024), and now I get to experience it as a home player.”
That Spain-Brazil friendly gave Cucurella a taste of the stadium, but playing there for Real Madrid will naturally be an entirely different experience. He has already taken notice of the rituals surrounding the club’s biggest matches, from the team’s arrival at the stadium to the atmosphere created by supporters.
“Hearing the anthem, the fans cheering as the bus pulls up, I’ve seen it in documentaries, and it’s impressive during big games.”
“All of that is really special, and those memories will stay with me forever.”
Cucurella also spoke about the significance of wearing the Real Madrid shirt. His comments reflected both an awareness of the club’s history and a sense that arriving at Madrid represents the culmination of the work required to reach this point in his career.
“It’s a source of pride to be here. I don’t think many people can say they’ve worn this jersey.”
“We’ve seen great legends; it’s a club with a rich history, the greatest in Europe. Being here today is a privilege, an honor, and above all, a reward for all the effort I’ve had to put in throughout my career.”
The defender also discussed working under José Mourinho and suggested there is already a comfortable relationship between the two.
“Working with Mourinho, there’s a lot of confidence and ease.”
Ultimately, Cucurella’s ambitions for the season are straightforward. For all the significance attached to joining Real Madrid and playing at the Bernabéu, the objective remains winning — while enjoying the experience along the way.
“We have to do what we know how to do on the pitch, and above all, enjoy ourselves. I think what we all want is to win and have a great year.”
