European Champion Marc Cucurella Returns to Cobham with New Tactical Role

Jim C.

8/9/2024

Marc Cucurella is back at Cobham and ready to play for Chelsea
Marc Cucurella is back at Cobham and ready to play for Chelsea

Photo by Chelsea FC.

After a successful stint with the Spanish national team, Cucurella is back training with his club teammates at Cobham. His return is timely as Chelsea prepares for a challenging season ahead, aiming to compete on multiple fronts domestically and in Europe.

Potential Role as an Inverted Fullback

Cucurella's ability to play as an inverted fullback adds a strategic advantage for Chelsea. An inverted fullback typically moves into the midfield during the attacking phase, creating overloads and contributing to ball progression. This role can provide several benefits:

  1. Midfield Support: By stepping into the midfield, Cucurella can support central midfielders, helping to maintain possession and distribute the ball more effectively.

  2. Defensive Solidity: His defensive skills will allow him to quickly revert to a traditional fullback role when the team loses possession, ensuring defensive stability.

  3. Flexibility in Attack: Cucurella's ability to join the attack from the back can create numerical advantages and open up spaces for wingers and forwards. We already witnessed that during the Euro final, when he assisted in the winning goal.

Under the guidance of a new manager Enzo Maresca, Cucurella's role as an inverted fullback could be crucial as he already played in such a position last year under Pochettino and he did brilliantly. Maresca's tactical acumen and emphasis on fluid, adaptable formations mean Cucurella's versatility will be well-utilized. His experience and success at the European Championship demonstrate his capability to perform at the highest level.

Marc Cucurella's return to Cobham brings renewed energy and options for Chelsea's tactical setup. His potential role as an inverted fullback could significantly enhance the team's dynamics, providing both defensive strength and attacking flexibility. As Chelsea gears up for the new season, Cucurella’s contributions will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.

Marc Cucurella, fresh off his triumph at the European Championship, has returned to Cobham and resumed training with Chelsea. The Spanish defender, known for his versatility and tenacity, is set to bring new dimensions to Chelsea's tactical setup this season.