Cucurella Sets Tone for Chelsea–Barcelona Clash as Palmer Ruled Out
The ex-La Masia left-back says depriving Barcelona of possession is Chelsea’s route to a result.
Overview
- Chelsea host Barcelona at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday in the Champions League, a meeting that carries personal significance for Marc Cucurella.
- Cucurella outlined a plan to take the ball away from Barcelona and to win physical duels and one-on-ones to disrupt their rhythm.
- He downplayed a one-on-one narrative with Lamine Yamal while acknowledging the teenager’s quality, joking that he told teammate Estevao to wear shin pads in training.
- Reflecting on his Barça past, Cucurella said, “Everything happens for a reason,” and he praised Pedri’s influence while noting the midfielder’s injury.
- Chelsea will be without Cole Palmer due to a surprise injury, with Cucurella emphasizing the importance of securing points in the group phase.