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Pedri praises Cucurella after Real Madrid transfer
Barcelona midfielder Pedri praised teammate Marc Cucurella after the defender’s transfer to Real Madrid, saying the Spanish left‑back “deserves to be at a big club” and wishing him success. The comment was made in a Teledeporte interview that Mundo Deportivo later quoted.
Pedri told Teledeporte, “I wish him the best, he is a footballer who deserves to be at a big club because he is a top player, I am happy for him.” The quote was reproduced by Mundo Deportivo.
Marc Cucurella rose through Barcelona’s La Masia academy before leaving Chelsea in search of regular football. He is now regarded as one of Europe’s best left‑backs.
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has treated Cucurella’s arrival as a key element of his squad planning. The move to Los Blancos provides the club with clarity at left‑back and adds a player with experience, intensity and a strong competitive edge.
Mourinho’s teams prioritize players who can compete aggressively, defend under pressure and meet demanding tactical roles. Cucurella’s energetic, committed style matches those criteria and should help him adapt quickly at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Cucurella will face competition from Alvaro Carreras for the starting left‑back role. Mourinho reportedly wants both players to fight for the position, a dynamic that should benefit Real Madrid.
Both Pedri and Cucurella are crucial to Spain’s chances at the World Cup and will be hoping for a strong performance against Uruguay. Their club form will be under scrutiny when the two meet in the tournament.
The accompanying images were captured by Buda Mendes and Florencia Tan Jun for Getty Images. The story draws on statements published by Mundo Deportivo.