Marc Cucurella claims he’s the victim of Premier League witch hunt as he twists the knife over England’s Euro 2024 failure

The Chelsea left-back provided the assist for Mikel Oyarzabal’s crucial goal as Spain beat England 2-1 to win the Euros in July. Now, the 26-year-old has hinted he is the victim of a Premier League witch hunt off the back of his country’s Euro 2024 success. The former Brighton star claims the powers that be are now “going after” him and are “jumping” on him quickly – but this is normal as “they’re hurt”.

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  WHAT MARC CUCURELLA SAID

  He told Spanish outlet COPE, per the Standard: “You have more impact; people know you more. Being champion of the Euros is historic and you will always take it with you. I’ve already been suspended for five yellow cards and I’ve committed few fouls; they’re going after me a bit. They jump on me quickly, especially when we play away. It’s normal, we won, I was involved in the goal, I’m playing at their home… it’s normal, they’re hurt.”

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Cucurella has turned his desperate start to life at Chelsea around in 2024. He has become an important player this season under Blues head coach Enzo Maresca – who said they need “seven” players like the Spaniard – and barely put a foot wrong for his country at the Euros. Whether he can continue this impressive form for a longer stretch remains to be seen.

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  WHAT NEXT?

  Before former Getafe talisman Cucurella returns to Chelsea next week, his Spain side take on Denmark in their next Nations League encounter on Saturday. That is followed by a home clash against Serbia on Tuesday night in the same competition.