Zidane Hails Marc Cucurella as World’s Best Left-Back

Zidane Hails Marc Cucurella as World’s Best Left-Back

Zinedine Zidane has declared Marc Cucurella “the best left-back in the world,” praising the Spaniard’s blend of defensive aggression and tactical intelligence. Speaking on French television shortly after Chelsea’s Champions League victory over Barcelona, Zidane emphasized Cucurella’s unique ability to combine vision with tenacity, calling him “untouchable.”

Cucurella’s rise is a remarkable story of resilience. Once dismissed by Barcelona’s La Masia academy in 2017 after just two senior appearances, he was deemed too raw and inconsistent for the club’s first team. Over the following years, he has developed into a highly sought-after defender, impressing in the Premier League with Brighton under Enzo Maresca before moving to Chelsea for a reported £62 million.

The Spaniard’s performance against Barcelona highlighted his impact. Roberto Martínez, Spain’s national team coach, praised Cucurella’s “ferocious aggression,” which he argued was instrumental in Chelsea’s dominance, particularly after Barcelona lost Ronald Araújo to a red card. His teammates echoed the sentiment, noting his ability to neutralize attacking threats and impose his presence on the game.

Cucurella’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. Following his standout performance, he earned man-of-the-match honors and was listed among Sports Illustrated’s top six left-backs in the world. Zidane’s endorsement has intensified speculation over potential transfers, with Real Madrid reportedly monitoring the situation closely.

From being discarded by La Masia to becoming a Premier League standout, Cucurella’s journey underscores his resilience and growth. His performances now command global attention, and he has firmly established himself as one of the game’s most complete and influential left-backs.