Cucurella: “Experiencing the magic of the Bernabéu from the inside will be very special”

Cucurella gave an interview to Realmadrid TV after his welcome event at Ciudad Real Madrid. The full-back, who made his official debut for our team last Saturday against Espanyol, stated: “It’s an honor. It’s a very special day for me and my family. The summer felt long, but I’ve already been enjoying it for a while, a few weeks.”

“It’s an honor to wear the jersey of the best club in the world; all it has won and all that it still has to win. Being part of this is something very special.”

Seeing the 15 Champions League trophies
“It’s very impressive. I remember a lot about the one with the comebacks, and also the most recent one, which was won by national team teammates like Carva, Joselu, and Nacho. It’s very special, and I hope we are fortunate enough to have great seasons and lift one ourselves. As a player, it’s one of the greatest achievements you can have.”

The president
“He’s a person who commands respect through his presence and everything he has achieved. Beyond the team, I think the great club he has built is very admirable. Being able to spend some time with him and get to know him more personally is a very beautiful experience.”

The call from Real Madrid
“I didn’t believe it at first. I remember my agents had messaged me. We have a group chat with my agents, my wife, and me, and they told me to call them. I was in the United States, and it was eight in the morning, and I thought: ‘Something’s happened, they must have bad news for me.’ They said it was a video call, so we called, and I couldn’t believe it. At first, it was a bit of a shock because I wasn’t expecting it; I hadn’t been told anything.”

“You don’t expect it. A call from a team like Real Madrid is something very few people can say they’ve had. It was very exciting, and I didn’t hesitate for a second. It’s been a big step in my career. It’s an honor to play at the Bernabéu and defend this badge. I hope it’s a great era, and we can win many titles.”

Winning the World Cup
“It has changed me in a profound way. It’s true that in Spain, because of the Euros, I already had a lot of affection, and many people appreciated me. But after the World Cup, which is historic for Spain—it’s the second one, with everything that comes with winning it and how difficult it is. And on top of that, signing for Madrid just before playing in the World Cup adds responsibility. I remember the first game when people were saying players shouldn’t transfer during the World Cup and should stay focused on the national team. I played very well in that match, and the pressure subsided a bit. All of this is the result of a lot of hard work, years of effort, and dedication. Now, whatever comes next, I welcome it. I’m very happy with everything happening in my life and with this new challenge as well.”

His family
“They’re very important, possibly the most important thing I have. It’s true that once you have children and a family, your perspective changes a bit. I remember when I was younger, if I played a football match and didn’t perform as I wanted, I could stay upset for two or three days. Now, though, I get home, and they’re still little; they greet me with joy, want to play, and it helps me shift my mindset. Both personally and in football, they’ve helped me a lot. They keep me focused and help me truly value what’s important. Football is very important in our lives, but there are other important things, too. Separating the two helps you stay more focused on the game.”

Adapting
“From the first day, I’ve felt very comfortable. I told my family that it felt like I’d been here for a long time. My teammates welcomed me very well. Then there are also those moments during dinner, with the staff or with some teammates still here at Valdebebas, which also help you feel more at ease and gain more confidence. Everything we do to get along off the field translates onto the field, and that’s fundamental to building a great team.”

Playing at the Bernabéu
“I’m really looking forward to it. The Bernabéu is a place I’ve experienced as a visitor, and I know how imposing it can be. There are moments when anything can happen. I’ve also seen what comebacks mean there. There are times when it seemed like Madrid was down and out, with no chance, and then in 10 minutes, everything changes. It’s magical, and being able to experience that from the inside is going to be one of the most beautiful things. I hope things go well, and we can make all the fans happy.”

Message to the fans
“Hello madridistas. Thank you all for your support. It’s a very special day for me and my family. I’m really looking forward to meeting you at the Bernabéu. ¡Hala Madrid!”

Disclaimer: Translation generated by artificial intelligence. It may contain inaccuracies.