This week, Cucurella was interviewed by the Spanish media "El Mundo". Due to its length, we have divided it into three parts. In the first part, he talked about his decision to join Real Madrid.
How do you feel, being the "hot prospect" standing before me?
Very well, excellent, very happy. All in all, it's a unique experience, and I'm very grateful for everything that has happened to me. The journey hasn't been easy; I've put in a lot of effort to get to where I am today.
Your move to Real Madrid happened almost overnight. Was it really that quick?
Yes, absolutely. It was probably finalized in just a day and a half to two days. That was great for me, much faster, and saved a lot of hassle. Now it's finally done, and I'm very happy. I'm delighted to have completed the transfer, and especially happy to be able to focus on the national team and the FIFA World Cup. This is a rare opportunity that I deserve.
When did you know everything was finalized?
Probably Sunday afternoon. They told me then that everything was pretty much done, just some paperwork and signing left, but nothing major. It took us about a day or a day and a half to arrange everything, and then they announced the result.
Due to the time difference, it was a bit unexpected, as the news was released a few hours before the match against Cape Verde. But in fact, everything had already been completed by then. I had already started thinking about the game, so there was nothing to worry about.
Despite receiving many other offers, you didn't hesitate to choose Real Madrid.
Well, in the end, I did have many options, but when Real Madrid extended an invitation to me, I didn't hesitate. I believe it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. After all, playing for Real Madrid is an honor; not every player gets such an opportunity. So I didn't hesitate, and I think my family and I both knew it was an opportunity we couldn't refuse. I'm very satisfied with the decision we made.
What did Mourinho say when he called you?
We chatted for a while. He said he was very much looking forward to working with me, that I would adapt quickly, and that Real Madrid is a great club. Then he didn't say much else, just wished me good luck in the FIFA World Cup and said we would meet in Madrid.
Did he really tell you, "It's either you or I won't sign a left-back"?
No, I don't know if he said that. He just told me he wanted me, and that was it. I'm very happy about his trust and look forward to working with him.
As a professional player, what would you say to fans who don't understand why a La Masia player would join Real Madrid?
I would tell them that life has different stages. For now, I had to make an important decision, and I have no doubt about it; I think this is a huge step for me.
As children, we all dream of playing for big clubs, and I think Real Madrid is one of them. They are the team with the most Champions League titles in the world. I hope to win championships with them and have a great time there.
Why choose Real Madrid? What is its charm?
Well, I think their numerous historic comebacks have already proven this. They have a mystique... I don't know how to describe it, it's elusive. Few spectators can understand how Real Madrid manages to turn things around when they seem to be in jeopardy.
To be a part of that, to personally experience that atmosphere, and those magical nights, as a football player, I think everyone would enjoy it. If you have the chance to experience all of that, there's nothing to hesitate about.