Marc Cucurella was booed whenever he touched the ball as Real Madrid faced FC Barcelona at Camp Nou, with the defender’s history at the Catalan club provoking a hostile reception from the home supporters.
The 28-year-old, a team-mate of Yan Diomande, joined Real Madrid from Chelsea this summer in a deal worth 55 million euros. He was named in the starting line-up for the Clasico, but every touch was met by whistles from the stands.
Cucurella’s reception was linked to his development at FC Barcelona, despite the fact he left the club several years ago. He had previously been part of the youth system at Espanyol before moving to Barcelona in 2012.
The defender progressed through the club’s academy and eventually made one official appearance for the first team. During his time with FC Barcelona, he also spent loan spells at Eibar and Getafe.
Getafe later signed him permanently for just under 12 million euros. Cucurella subsequently moved to Brighton & Hove Albion before joining Chelsea.
His return to Camp Nou as a Real Madrid player ensured that his past remained a focus throughout the match. Each time the Spain international received possession, another round of jeers and whistles rang around the stadium.
The Clasico was Cucurella’s 13th appearance for Real Madrid since completing his move to the Merengues.
