Cucurella admits Barcelona return 'would be difficult to refuse'

Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella has publicly stated that a potential return to Barcelona would be an offer he would struggle to turn down. The Spain international, who came through Barcelona's La Masia academy, made the comments in an interview with Marca ahead of Spain's friendly against Egypt.

Speaking about the prospect of rejoining his boyhood club, Cucurella said, "It would be difficult to refuse. It's not just about me. I'd have to think about my family. If it happens, it happens, and we'll see what decision is made." The left-back also acknowledged he thinks about a return to La Liga in the future, adding, "You always think about going back. I'm very happy there, and so is my family. I'll leave it for a few years from now…"

Cucurella left Barcelona's youth setup in 2019 after finding a path to the first team blocked by Jordi Alba. His career path took him to Eibar, Getafe, and then Brighton, before Chelsea signed him for a reported €65 million in 2022. He has since become a regular for the Spanish national team under coach Luis de la Fuente.

Despite his public openness to a move, a transfer this summer appears unlikely. According to reports in Spain, Barcelona have several alternative names on their shortlist for the left-back position, and Cucurella is not among them. The Catalan club are also not prioritizing the position, with Alejandro Balde currently at the club, and Cucurella's potential fee and contract at Chelsea—which runs until 2028—are seen as significant obstacles.

The situation leaves Cucurella's immediate future at Stamford Bridge, where he has re-established himself as a key player. His comments, however, place a clear marker for a potential emotional return to Catalonia later in his career.