Chelsea star Marc Cucurella could have the perfect chance to make a solid impression on Graham Potter’s team with Reece James set for a spell on the sidelines. AC Milan technical director Paolo Maldini called the Spaniard a ‘reserve left-back’ during the week, despite his massive summer price tag.
Cucurella was snapped up by the Blues after a lengthy transfer saga that initially saw Manchester City send inquiries. Not pleased by the asking price, Pep Guardiola’s side walked away but Chelsea stuck around to cough up a huge £63million fee.
That was seen as curious by some, given that £50m-man Ben Chilwell was already back to full fitness and playing well. Graham Potter replaced Thomas Tuchel in the dugout shortly after the transfer deadline and Cucurella has started twice in five games since.
Although Potter and Cucurella worked together last season at Brighton, the new Blues boss is seemingly unafraid to show faith in Chilwell, even if it means leaving the big-money signing on the bench.
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Although James primarily plays on the right-hand side, he was also used regularly in central defence by former boss Tuchel. His absence could therefore open up more regular opportunities for Cucurella to feature in a back three with the 24-year-old versatile enough to fill in across the back line.
James’ spell on the sidelines could also open up a need for a more adventurous centre-back, such as Cucurella, to play forward passes and drive Potter’s side up the pitch. With 33-year-old Cesar Azpilicueta the main deputy at right-back, Cucurella could also be asked to play on the opposite flank if his compatriot’s workload becomes too heavy. Right-footed Joao Cancelo often plays on the left for Manchester City to great effect.
“Marc Cucurella is a footballer valued at quite a high price which suggests he’s a good player,” said Potter while still in charge of Brighton. “And in any team you need good players to win games, especially in this league, it’s so competitive and so tough.
“But I always think the collective idea is more important than any individual, and it’s our job to try and help the guys here improve. Like I said before, they’ve got ambition, desire, and they want to move forward, so that’s what we’re focused on.”
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