Cucurella says Spain’s stability contrasts with Real Madrid’s new beginning

Marc Cucurella says the settled nature of Spain’s squad is in marked contrast to the early stages of his time at Real Madrid, where he is still adapting after fewer than 10 appearances.

The 28-year-old left-back, one of the regulars in Luis de la Fuente’s Spain side, was speaking at a news conference before Saturday’s Nations League meeting with Czech Republic.

“I have played fewer than 10 matches with Real Madrid,” said Cucurella. “There are things we need to improve, but I will give everything I have to produce the same version of myself in Madrid that I do with the national team.”

Cucurella, who previously played for Chelsea, said the different circumstances at club and international level should be taken into account when assessing his performances.

“Everything is part of a process,” he said. “With the national team, the core group has been together for many years, as has the manager. In Madrid, we have only just started with a new manager, so it is too early to talk about it.”

He acknowledged that Real Madrid’s opening phase had not gone as expected, but insisted there was time for the team’s progress to become clearer.

“The start with Real Madrid was not what we all expected, but everything is part of a process and we will see where we end up,” Cucurella added.

The defender was also asked about the strong support he receives from Spain supporters. He said he was unsure why he had become such a popular figure, although he suggested his appearance might play a part.

“I do not know the reason,” he said. “Perhaps it is because of my appearance, which attracts more attention. I am happy with everything, both in sporting terms and personally.”

Cucurella responded in similarly light-hearted fashion when asked about his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or. “If I had the vote, I would vote for myself,” he joked.

“Let whoever deserves to win it win. I will leave that to the voters,” he added.

He also welcomed the presence of Real Madrid players in the Spain squad and said the club should continue contributing to the national team.

“It is one of the best clubs in the world and it should have a presence in the national team,” said Cucurella. “The important thing is that there are team-mates.”

He believes Real Madrid’s academy could provide further options for Spain in the future.

“There are excellent young players at the academy,” he said. “If they gradually receive a bigger role, they can come into the Spain team.”