Cucurella relishing Real Madrid challenge after impressive Schalke cameo

Marc Cucurella says the years of hard work behind his move to Real Madrid have been rewarded after making his first appearance for the Spanish giants in their convincing pre-season victory over Schalke.

The match completed Real Madrid’s preparations for the new season and gave manager Jose Mourinho several reasons for optimism. Alongside the arrival of new signings, the game also marked the return of important players to his plans, including Jude Bellingham and Thibaut Courtois.

Cucurella was one of three new players to make their first appearance for the club, alongside Ibrahima Konate and Amadou Diomande. The Spain international came on in the 61st minute and made a positive impression during his time on the pitch, despite being introduced when the match was already under way and the circumstances were not straightforward.

After the final whistle, Cucurella said he was delighted with the start of his Real Madrid career and believed the team had produced a strong performance at an ideal time before the competitive campaign begins.

“I’m very happy, and I think it was a great game for everyone. It’s an excellent result before the start of the season. The wait has been long, and I’m really looking forward to the league starting,” he said.

The left-back joined up with Real Madrid later than the rest of the squad after representing Spain in the World Cup final. His subsequent move to the club began a new chapter in his career and represented the reward for years of sustained effort.

“There is a lot of hard work behind all of this, and all the effort put in over the years has been worth it,” Cucurella said.

He also praised the welcome he received from his new team-mates, saying their support had helped him settle rapidly into the group despite arriving after much of the squad had already begun preparations.

Real Madrid’s players made a particularly strong effort to ensure that Cucurella and the other newcomers felt comfortable, according to the defender.

“They are all great, and they made it easier for everyone to join the team,” he added.

Cucurella also addressed Real Madrid supporters, saying he had received a large number of messages since completing his move. He promised to give everything for the club’s famous white shirt as he prepares for the league season.

The victory over Schalke therefore provided more than a final opportunity to build match fitness. For Cucurella, it offered an encouraging first step after a lengthy wait to begin his Real Madrid career, while Mourinho was able to assess several new options and welcome key figures back into contention before the competitive fixtures begin.