Why Marc Cucurella's every touch was booed during Real Madrid debut

A section of fans at the Veltins Arena booed Marc Cucurella's every touch as he made his debut for Real Madrid in their final pre-season game of the summer against Schalke.

Cucurella played his first minutes for Los Blancos on Sunday afternoon, two months after leaving Chelsea to join the Spanish giants in a deal worth a reported £51.8 million.

It was a moment to remember for the 28-year-old, who fulfilled his childhood dream of playing for Real Madrid.

The full-back replaced Alvaro Carreras in the 61st minute, although he received a hostile reception from the German crowd, with his every touch being jeered by those in attendance.

So, why was he booed? It appears an incident in the Euro 2024 quarter-final between Spain and Germany remains fresh in the memory of supporters who attended Sunday's game in Gelsenkirchen.

For those unaware, La Roja won 2-1 after extra time after Germany were denied a late penalty at 1-1, when Cucurella appeared to block a Jamal Musiala shot with his arm.

Anthony Taylor, who was officiating the game that day, did not award a spot-kick, suggesting Cucurella's arm had been close to his body when the ball struck.

It was a call that was widely criticised by the German camp, and rightly so. Later on, UEFA confirmed that the decision was a mistake and Germany should have been awarded a penalty.

It appears some supporters still hold a grudge towards Cucurella, two years on. Image credit: Getty

Still, the continuous booing didn't stop Cucurella from enjoying his debut. “I am very happy. Behind all this, there is a lot of work, and all the effort I’ve put in over the years has been worth it," he said after the game.

“I’m very happy with everything that’s happening to me, and I hope it continues this way - winning titles. And above all, being able to enjoy this experience.”

Marc Cucurella opens up on working under Jose Mourinho

Cucurella's big-money arrival points to a starting spot in Mourinho's side in the coming months.

Speaking about the impact Mourinho has brought to the training ground since his arrival, Cucurella said: "A lot of confidence and naturalness. We have to do what we know out on the field, and above all, enjoy ourselves.

He added: "I think what we all want is to win and to have a great year."

READ MORE: Why Marc Cucurella buried a coin in the grass before World Cup final as footage shows 'secret' act

As mentioned above, Cucurella has fulfilled a childhood dream by signing for Los Blancos, something he spoke about in the interview with Real Madrid TV.

"As a kid starting out playing football, then having the opportunity to play for a club like this, it's very hard to turn down," he said.

"When the opportunity came, I didn't hesitate for a second. As a spectator, I've seen all those magical nights, those comebacks at the Bernabeu, all the Champions League titles they've lifted. Having the chance to experience it first-hand and be a part of it is a huge responsibility, but also a very beautiful and important challenge."