Marc Cucurella's Bold Retirement Promise Ahead of World Cup Final
Cucurella's Remarkable Retirement Announcement
Marc Cucurella, the Spanish left-back, has made a remarkable announcement as he prepares for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final against Argentina. He declared that he would retire from international football if Spain secures their second World Cup title, as reported by a French daily. The 27-year-old has been a key player for Spain throughout the tournament, stating that winning both the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup would fulfill all his aspirations in international football.
In an interview, Cucurella expressed, "If we win the World Cup, I'll inform Luis the next day that I won't be available anymore, marking my retirement from the national team. With a European Championship and a World Cup, I can't achieve more than that."
The Real Madrid defender has played every minute of Spain's seven matches in the World Cup, helping the team reach the final while conceding only one goal. Despite his young age, Cucurella believes that winning the World Cup would be the ideal conclusion to his international career.
Additional Promises from Cucurella
Cucurella has also made another intriguing promise: if Spain triumphs over Argentina, he plans to get a tattoo of head coach Luis de la Fuente. He stated, "I would get a small tattoo of Spain's manager Luis de la Fuente's face on my bicep if we win the World Cup," as reported by a sports outlet.
This bold statement is in line with Cucurella's history of making striking promises. Earlier in his career, he famously claimed he would rather shave his head than play for Real Madrid, yet he joined the club in June while keeping his hair intact.
Other Spanish players are also making unique commitments, with teenage star Lamine Yamal promising to grow a full beard and moustache for three weeks if Spain wins on Sunday.
A Momentous Final Awaits
Spain is set to compete for their second World Cup title in history against the defending finalists, Argentina. This final presents a chance for Luis de la Fuente's team to add the World Cup trophy to the European Championship they won in 2024.
For Cucurella, who has celebrated success with clubs like Chelsea and Real Madrid, along with winning the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup, this final could be the pinnacle of his career—and potentially the end of his international journey with Spain.