Marc Cucurella plays down ‘annoying’ tag as Chelsea defender targets trophies | OneFootball

Marc Cucurella has played down being labelled as ‘annoying’ by opposition clubs and fans as the Chelsea defender sets his sights on winning trophies at Chelsea.

The Euro 2024 winner is into his third season at Stamford Bridge and he has been one of Chelsea’s most consistent performers this term.

The Blues haven’t won a trophy since winning the Champions League back in 2021 but that is expected to change this season, given their status as clear favourites to win the Conference League.

And Cucurella’s response to being tagged as a ‘wind-up merchant’, was to declare that he’s willing to do whatever it takes to keep Chelsea in the hunt for silverware.

“I think everyone has this role [to keep pressure off the team],” he spoke ahead of Chelsea’s clash against Copenhagen.

“I do my best always to help the team. As a young squad, the age doesn’t matter, we need to show we are ready. We can improve, it’s not an excuse.

“If we show we are ready in the game it doesn’t matter the age. Tomorrow, we have a good opportunity. Now is everything to play for.

“I understand we have a responsibility because we play for a big club. When I played for more small clubs, not at this level, you don’t feel this [as much]. It’s part of the game, you play for Chelsea. A club that needs to win trophies.

“For me, we need to stay focused on what we need to do and prove. I always say it doesn’t matter if you win 10 or 11 games or five, the most important thing is the trophies at the end of the season. It’s time to show we are ready.”

Cucurella admitted to sympathising with Chelsea supporters who were protesting before their last match against Southampton but called upon fans to look at the bigger, long-term picture.

“I can understand. The fans can show their feelings,” he continued.

“If they think it’s a good moment to do this, I can understand. We show in the games that Chelsea are a top club, to fight for things.

“The most important thing is that we can show we have a lot of energy, we want to win and defend this badge in the best way.

“It’s part of football, we understand the fans support Chelsea. We can understand their frustrations but it’s a long project. We’re in a good way. Hopefully we can win something this season.”