When Chelsea signed Marc Cucurella from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2022, he initially struggled at the club.
In his first season in west London, he was constantly in and out of the team. In total, Cucurella made 21 starts in the Premier League.
Fast forward to the present, and the Spaniard is now arguably the best left-back in England. Peter Crouch is a fan of Cucurella, recently naming him in his Team of the Season so far.
START, BENCH, SELL: Marc Cucurella, Reece James and Malo Gusto
Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella coming on for Malo Gusto
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However, the above is not the only reason why Chelsea will want to keep hold of the defender.
Chelsea teammates Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurella in discussion
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Marc Cucurella helping his teammates at Chelsea
Since joining Chelsea, Cucurella has been linked with a return to Barcelona, but he has become such an important figure in the dressing room.
Ahead of his side’s game against Bournemouth on Tuesday night, Cucurella shared that he is always trying to help his teammates.
In an interview for the matchday programme, which has been shared by Chelsea’s official club website, the Spain international said: “I like to help. My personality is very open, so I’m easy when it comes to helping my team-mates. I always try to help them.”
Marc Cucurella’s fitness in doubt 👀
Do Chelsea need another left-back in January?
Marc Cucurella playing for Chelsea
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It remains to be seen whether Barcelona will make a move to re-sign Cucurella in the future. But if they do, looking at his recent words and form under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea have to say no.
At 27, Cucurella is also one of the most seasoned pros in a very inexperienced Chelsea squad. Losing him would hit them hard.
Marc Cucurella of Chelsea runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Aston Villa
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Chelsea will find it hard to replace Marc Cucurella
Cucurella departing would ultimately see Chelsea lose a top player and one of the leaders in their dressing room.
Jorrel Hato could join Ajax on loan, but he has a lot of potential and may be able to succeed Cucurella in the left-back position one day.
But if Chelsea had to try to find a replacement for Cucurella next summer, it would be a very tricky search. He is an individual the club have to keep hold of should Barcelona or another club come knocking in 2026.
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