According to a report by The Chelsea Chronicle, Martin Keown has highlighted Marc Cucurella as a key player for Chelsea this season under head coach Enzo Maresca. Keown praised the £60m defender, emphasizing his vital role in the team’s playing style.
Keown noted, “Marc Cucurella plays a vital role, acting as the inverted left back, moving into midfield as an extra option. At Bournemouth, he was so advanced that his average position was higher than the midfielders.” This demonstrates how Cucurella is becoming an important part of Chelsea’s tactical setup, contributing to both defense and attack.
Since arriving from Brighton for £60m, Cucurella has faced pressure to justify his high price tag. However, under Maresca’s guidance, he is starting to prove his worth. The Spaniard has started every Premier League game this season, regularly tucking into midfield to help with build-up play. His performances have been instrumental in Chelsea’s decent start to the season, as they have collected 10 points from their first five games.
Cucurella’s form has carried over from a successful summer, where he played a crucial role for Spain in their Euro 2024 victory. His solid club performances this season further highlight his growth and importance to Chelsea’s system.
It’s not just Cucurella’s involvement in possession that’s catching attention; he is also showing defensive aggression and clarity. Keown’s comments reflect how Cucurella’s positional play and tactical awareness are helping Chelsea establish their identity on the pitch.
Maresca himself has praised Cucurella, stating that he “makes those around him better,” according to Football.London. This recognition from both the head coach and pundits like Keown highlights how Cucurella has adapted well to the team’s new playing style.
Consistency in Chelsea’s defensive setup has been a major factor in their positive performances so far, and Cucurella has been a big part of that. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, especially as an inverted full-back, has given Chelsea more tactical options.
As the season progresses, it seems that Cucurella is becoming an essential figure in Maresca’s Chelsea side, demonstrating why the club invested so heavily in him.
