Give us time, says Cucurella
Real Madrid defender Marc Cucurella has asked fans and critics to be patient with the team. Under new manager Jose Mourinho, Madrid have not had the perfect start. They have already lost two of their opening seven LaLiga matches, falling to defeats against Real Betis and Atletico Madrid. These losses leave them six points behind leaders Barcelona.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday while with the Spain national team, Cucurella explained that the new project needs time. He pointed out that the national team has stable foundations built over years, while Madrid are starting fresh. He noted that some players only had a single week of preseason training before the matches began.
Adapting to a new club
Cucurella joined Real Madrid from Chelsea in the summer for a transfer fee of 55 million euros. While he has struggled to find his best form for his club, he has been excellent for Spain. He recently helped his national team secure UEFA Nations League wins against England and Croatia.
Some critics believe he plays better for his country than his club. Cucurella dismissed these concerns, pointing out that he has played fewer than ten games for Madrid. He said he is still adapting to his new teammates and adjusting after a very short preseason. He promised to work hard so he can replicate his Spain form in a Madrid shirt.
Ballon d'Or nomination
The left back's strong year has earned him a place on the shortlist of 30 nominees for the Ballon d'Or. He plays alongside two of the top favourites for the award, Kylian Mbappe at Madrid and Lamine Yamal with Spain. When asked who he would choose, Cucurella joked that he would vote for himself, but added he would be happy for either of his teammates.
Spain will face Czechia in Oviedo on Saturday, followed by a match against Croatia on Tuesday.
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