Happy Birthday Marc Cucurella! Celebrating FIFA World Cup 2026 Winner As Spain and Real Madrid Star Turns 28

Today, July 22, 2026, marks the 28th birthday of Marc Cucurella Saseta, a player who has swiftly ascended to become one of football's most decorated left-backs. His special day arrives amidst a momentous year, having recently clinched the FIFA World Cup with Spain and completed a high-profile move to La Liga giants Real Madrid, transitioning from Chelsea just over a month ago. La Liga President Javier Tebas Demands FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s Resignation, Accuses Him of ‘Destroying’ Football.

From La Masia to La Liga Prominence

Born in Alella, Barcelona, Cucurella's football journey began in the youth ranks of Espanyol before moving to Barcelona's famed La Masia academy in 2012. He spent several years honing his skills with Barcelona B, making 48 appearances and scoring one goal between 2016 and 2018. His senior club career then saw loan spells with fellow La Liga clubs Eibar in 2018-19 and Getafe in 2019-20, where he quickly established himself as a dynamic force on the left flank. He made 31 appearances for Eibar, scoring once, and 37 appearances during his initial loan at Getafe, also netting one goal, before making the move permanent and adding another 38 appearances and three goals in the 2020-21 season.

Premier League Stint and European Glory

Cucurella's impressive performances in Spain earned him a move to the Premier League with Brighton & Hove Albion in 2021. He quickly became a fan favourite, featuring 35 times and scoring one goal in his single season, which saw him scoop both the Players' Player and Player of the Season awards for the club. His standout displays led to a significant transfer to Chelsea in 2022. During his four years at Stamford Bridge, Cucurella made 115 appearances, scoring six goals, and was instrumental in Chelsea's successes, including winning the UEFA Conference League in the 2024-25 season and the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025.

A Champion for Spain

On the international stage, Cucurella has been a consistent presence for Spain across multiple youth levels, notably securing a silver medal with the U23 team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which took place in 2021. He made his senior international debut for Spain in 2021 and has since amassed 32 appearances, scoring his first international goal on September 4, 2025, in a 3-0 World Cup qualifier victory against Bulgaria. The year 2024 proved to be monumental as he was part of the Spain squad that lifted the UEFA European Championship, earning a place in the Team of the Tournament. This was followed by another historic triumph in 2026, as Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup champions on July 19, with Cucurella playing a pivotal role in their success. Did Lamine Yamal Marry Girlfriend Inés García Santos After World Cup Win? Fact Check Finds Pics AI-Generated.

Looking Ahead at Real Madrid

Having joined Real Madrid on June 15, 2026, Cucurella embarks on a new chapter in his illustrious career. His arrival at the Santiago Bernabéu, fresh off World Cup glory, is expected to significantly bolster Real Madrid's defensive options. With his blend of attacking prowess, defensive solidity, and big-game experience, the Spanish left-back is poised for an exciting future with Los Blancos.

As Marc Cucurella celebrates his 28th birthday, he does so as a celebrated international, a multiple club trophy winner, and the newest star to grace the hallowed grounds of Real Madrid. His journey is a testament to dedication and talent, and fans eagerly anticipate his contributions to his new club.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 22, 2026 10:34 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).