Marc Cucurella Expresses Excitement for World Cup Debut, Names Germany as Dark Horses
Marc Cucurella, the Chelsea midfielder and Spain international, has expressed his anticipation for his first FIFA World Cup appearance, stating, “I can’t wait for my first World Cup” in an interview with the Chelsea official site. The 25-year-old, who has emerged as a key figure in both club and international football, is set to play a pivotal role in Spain’s campaign as the tournament approaches.
Cucurella’s comments come amid growing speculation about the competitiveness of the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Spanish star also weighed in on potential contenders, noting, “Hopefully they’ll be heading home early”: DFB nightmare Cucurella names Germany as dark horses for the World Cup, according to Goal.com. His remarks highlight the unpredictable nature of the tournament, where traditional powerhouses like Germany could face unexpected challenges.
Spain’s World Cup Prospects
Spain’s squad, led by manager Luis Enrique, has been praised for its depth and tactical flexibility. Cucurella, who joined Chelsea in a £46 million move from Brighton in 2023, has been a consistent performer in the Premier League and is expected to contribute significantly to Spain’s midfield. His versatility, ability to adapt to different roles, and composure under pressure have made him a fan favorite.
The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams, a format that could create more opportunities for underdogs. Cucurella acknowledged this, stating, “The expanded format means more teams have a chance to shine, which makes the tournament even more exciting.”
Germany’s Dark Horse Potential
Cucurella’s mention of Germany as a “dark horse” reflects the team’s recent resurgence under coach Hansi Flick. After a disappointing 2022 campaign, Germany has been rebuilding its squad, with young talents like Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz leading the charge. The team’s strong performances in the 2024 UEFA European Championship qualifiers and their physical, attacking style have drawn comparisons to their 2014 World Cup-winning side.
However, Cucurella also emphasized the challenges Germany faces. “They have quality, but consistency is key,” he said. “If they can stay focused, they could be a real threat.”
Preparing for the Global Stage
As the World Cup approaches, Cucurella has been training rigorously with Spain, focusing on both physical and mental preparation. His experience in high-stakes matches, including the 2023 UEFA Champions League final, has equipped him to handle the pressure of international competition.
“I’ve learned a lot from playing in big games,” Cucurella said. “The World Cup is