July 12th 2024.
Spanish football star Marc Cucurella has responded to the recent criticism from former England player Gary Neville. The 25-year-old, who has been a key player for Spain in the Euro 2024 tournament, was not pleased with Neville's comments before Spain's match against Croatia.
Cucurella has faced heavy criticism this season for his performance at Chelsea, where he was unable to help the team win any trophies. Many fans were surprised to see him in the starting lineup for Spain's first match against Croatia in Group B.
Neville had even suggested that Cucurella's selection was a sign that something was missing in the Spanish squad. He said, "We didn't think he'd play. He's not been convincing at Chelsea, he's played a few games towards the end of the season, he's aggressive, he's tenacious, he's a busy little full-back."
The former Manchester United player also commented on Cucurella's expensive price tag and how it still astounds many people. However, Cucurella proved his critics wrong with an impressive performance against Croatia, where he made a crucial goal-saving block in the second half.
Despite Neville's comments, Cucurella has maintained his place in the starting lineup for Spain and is expected to face England in the final. When asked about Neville's criticism, Cucurella responded, "In England, it is very common for pundits to make such comments. They have been players themselves and have had similar experiences. However, I don't think it's necessary to be disrespectful just to get views or to make a name for oneself."
The defender also added that he hopes to lift the cup with his team and prove his doubters wrong. Cucurella has been a near-constant presence in Spain's starting lineup this summer and has played a crucial role in their journey to the final.
In the semi-final match against France, the defender was subjected to loud boos and jeers from the crowd. However, it was later revealed that the boos were from German fans who were frustrated with Cucurella's escape from a handball shout in their team's quarter-final defeat.
When asked about the incident, Cucurella said, "At first, it was a little shocking because I didn't understand why I was being booed. But then I saw that there were a lot of white shirts in the crowd and I understood why. It's a shame that people spend money to watch a match and then boo like that. The important thing is that we are in the final and those who were angry or bored are watching from home."
Despite the criticism and booing, Cucurella remains focused on his team's goal of winning the European Championship. He is determined to prove his doubters wrong and lift the cup with his team.
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