On the eve of Spain's opening match against Cape Verde in the 2026 World Cup, Luis de la Fuente was asked about one of the biggest transfer rumors of the season: Marc Cucurella's imminent move to Real Madrid. Far from seeing it as a distraction for La Roja, the Spanish national team coach expressed particular enthusiasm at the prospect of his full-back taking the next step in his career.

Speaking at a press conference at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the coach assured everyone that this news would have no impact on the player's concentration or on the balance of the Spanish squad. According to him, the individual successes of the international players are, on the contrary, a source of satisfaction for the entire national team.

“His transfer to Real Madrid will not affect him at all. We already experienced this kind of situation during the Euros. When a player is happy, it benefits everyone. There is no tension in the locker room, quite the opposite,” explained the coach.

Luis de la Fuente also highlighted Cucurella's maturity and experience, having followed him since his time in the Spanish youth ranks. Convinced of his ability to handle pressure, he believes the defender is ready to take on the challenge of playing for a club of Real Madrid's stature.

“I’ve worked with him since he was 17. I know his character perfectly and his ability to handle big occasions. For us, he’s been a sure thing from day one. His arrival at Real Madrid is excellent news and we’re all happy for him,” he added.

With the official announcement of the transfer now seeming imminent, Marc Cucurella, a product of La Masia, is preparing to join Real Madrid with the full confidence of his national team coach. This is a significant boost ahead of Spain's World Cup campaign, as they are counting on their defender to play a major role in their quest for another world title.