Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella was in good form again as Spain maintained their unbeaten record after already qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
The European champions drew 2-2 against Turkey, with Cucurella showing his attacking capabilities with an early assist.
Alan Smith said he is surprised Cucurella isn’t involved in more goals for Chelsea, with the Spaniard picking up very attacking positions on the pitch.
He has two assists in the Premier League so far this season, one of those for Estevao Willian’s last-gasp winner against Liverpool.
Spain V Turkey - Fifa World Cup 2026 Qualifier Group E
Photo By Joaquin Corchero/Europa Press via Getty Images
Marc Cucurella impresses despite Spain’s draw vs Turkey
Despite this form for his club, Spanish media stated that he wasn’t as advanced as fellow full-back Marcos Llorente against Turkey, however they were impressed with his defensive display.
Sport stated that Cucurella has a ‘great attitude’, and refuses to lose focus even if some of those around him start to do so.
They said: “The man from Alella never loses focus. Even when the rest of the team eases off, ‘Cucu’ maintains his great attitude. He didn’t get forward as much as Llorente on the other wing, but he also tried his luck repeatedly and was solid in his marking.”
The former Brighton man has held off challenges from the likes of Grimaldo to establish himself as Spain’s number one choice for his position, and looks a certainty to start at the World Cup next summer.
Cucurella relishing test of Spanish giants
After Chelsea return to Premier League action against Burnley this weekend, all eyes will swiftly turn to the marquee Champions League tie with Barcelona.
Should Estevao start against Burnley?
There is a clear admiration for the club from the Chelsea man. Cucurella has previously not ruled out a future move to Barcelona after his time at Stamford Bridge is done.
The left-back will have the chance to make a statement against them on Tuesday night, helping the Blues get closer to a top eight place in the group stages in the process.
He is likely to be the Chelsea man dealt with handling Lamine Yemal, as he faces off against Estevao in the battle of the wonderkids.