Luis de la Fuente backs Marc Cucurella for World Cup

Real Madrid confirmed Marc Cucurella as their third summer signing on Monday, a €60 million deal. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente said the left‑back will focus on the 2026 World Cup. Cucurella will join from Chelsea later in the summer, after Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries were also signed. He aims to be a starter for Spain, who enter the tournament as favourites after an imperious Euro 2024 showing.

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De la Fuente addressed the transfer in his pre‑match press conference before Spain’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde at Atlanta Stadium. He insisted the move will not distract the player and praised the club’s commitment.

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The coach called Cucurella a “safe bet”, noting he has known him since he was 17 and believes he can be one of the world’s best left‑backs. He expects the quality to translate into the World Cup.