Marc Cucurella explains decision to leave Brighton after sealing Chelsea move

Marc Cucurella has spoken for the first time since completing a move to Chelsea from Brighton. 

The Spaniard moved to Stamford Bridge in a deal worth £62 million and is seen as a cover for first choice left back, Ben Chilwell. 

Since signing for the Blues, he has given his reasoning behind the decision to leave the Seagulls. Describing Chelsea as one of the biggest clubs in the world. 

Cucurella told Chelsea’s official website: “I’m really happy. It’s a big opportunity for me to join one of the best clubs in the world and I’m going to work hard to be happy here and help the team.” 

#CucurellaIsChelsea

Read all about it! 😁

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 5, 2022

The 24-year-old was linked with a move to Manchester City prior to sealing a move to Chelsea. The Etihad club were eventually put off by Brighton’s asking price, paving the way for Chelsea to seal the deal unchallenged. 

Cucurella only joined Brighton last summer from Getafe, he quickly established himself as a regular starter under Graham Potter. He was named the club’s player of the year and also player’s player of the year.

🥇 Players player of the year
🥇 Fans player of the year

Marc Cucurella scooped the double award at Brighton’s end of season awards last night. 💪 pic.twitter.com/WdOitolv1l

— Football Daily (@footballdaily) May 10, 2022

Both Potter and the club’s chief executive, Paul Barber have expressed their disappointment in losing Cucurella. 

Potter said on Brighton's official website: “We did not want to lose Marc [Cucurella], but he wanted the opportunity of playing Champions League football with a view to accelerating his progress to Spain’s World Cup squad.

“Of course we are disappointed to see Marc leave, but we wish him well for the future. He had an excellent first season in the Premier League, deservedly winning both our player of the season awards, and has been an absolute pleasure to work with over the past 12 months.” 

Barber added: “We did not want or need to sell Marc, despite interest from different clubs. We wanted to keep him at Brighton where he has done so well.

“However, recognising Marc wanted the opportunity to play in the Champions League, our absolute priority was to ensure any deal was the right one for Brighton & Hove Albion.

“We have worked very hard with Chelsea over the past week or so, and particularly in the past 24 hours, to secure the right valuation for an exceptional player.” 

Cucurella could make his Chelsea debut on Saturday’s evening kick off against Everton if he was registered in time. He is due to train with his teammates for the first time on Friday afternoon. 

Up and running! 🏃‍♂️#CucurellaIsChelsea pic.twitter.com/Rnfb0hsGDv

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 5, 2022

Meanwhile, Brighton will start their 22/23 campaign against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.