It wasn’t too long ago that Marc Cucurella was being mocked for his wild hair and questioned for his price tag.
But now? He’s become one of Chelsea’s most dependable and dynamic players, with fans singing his name and teammates praising his work ethic.
Behind the curls and chaos is a story of discipline, resilience, and family devotion that’s helped the 26-year-old Spaniard win over critics—and maybe even earn a fresh contract.
The Guy Who’s Always Early and Never in Trouble
Let’s start with the basics: Cucurella is the guy who shows up first and leaves last.
While Chelsea operates a strict fines system—late for training or game day and you’re shelling out thousands—Cucurella has never had to pay a penny.
No missed meetings. No blaring phones during briefings. No dirty socks left behind.
Those at Cobham describe him as “ultra diligent,” “a bundle of energy,” and “the most likeable guy in the building.”
He’s even earned the affectionate nickname “Cucu Clock” for his spot-on punctuality.
A Tactical Shift and a Game-Winning Goal
This season, Cucurella has stepped up in ways few expected.
Thanks to instructions from manager Enzo Maresca, he’s been encouraged to make attacking runs into the box—and it’s paid off.
No other Premier League defender has scored more goals in 2025.
His header from a Reece James cross against Manchester United sealed a 1-0 win, putting Chelsea on track for a Champions League showdown with Nottingham Forest.
The Story Behind That Hair
Let’s talk about the hair—because you can’t not talk about the hair.
It’s often compared to Sideshow Bob’s wild mane, but there’s a heartfelt reason for it.
Cucurella grew it out for his mum, Patricia, so she could easily spot him on the pitch as a kid playing for Espanyol and later Barcelona.
These days, it serves a new purpose. His three kids—Mateo, Rio, and Bella—can spot their dad in the crowd too.
And after every goal, they get a special penguin dance celebration from him, inspired by his love for their favorite animal and his partner Claudia Rodriguez.
Family First Through the Tough Times
Cucurella and Claudia have been open about their challenges on the Amazon Prime series Married to the Game.
Their move to London in 2022 came with major stress.
Their son Mateo was diagnosed with autism, and finding the right school took time.
Then came a terrifying burglary at their home, where over £60,000 worth of goods were stolen—leaving Claudia afraid to sleep alone with the children.
Through all that, the couple leaned on each other.
They’ve built a home filled with Disney movies, wrestling fandom (Cucurella loves John Cena), and plenty of laughs—even when times were tough.
From Booed to Beloved: The Football Rollercoaster
Professionally, Cucurella’s early Chelsea days were anything but smooth.
Signed from Brighton for £63 million in 2022, he arrived just weeks before manager Thomas Tuchel was sacked.
Graham Potter then tried him in a new role as a third centre back—a move that quickly backfired.
He was subbed off at half-time against Aston Villa and pulled after just 36 minutes in a game against Manchester United.
Fans weren’t forgiving. They booed him during a Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund, and online memes compared him to everyone from Sideshow Bob to a knock-off Roberto Carlos.
Manchester City had been interested in signing him at one point but dropped out, supposedly laughing at Brighton’s price demands.
A Turning Point in Aston Villa
The moment things began to turn came in April 2024.
Against Aston Villa, Chelsea trailed 2-0 at half-time, and Cucurella had scored an own goal.
Instead of pulling him off, Pochettino told him to shift into midfield. The move worked.
Chelsea came back to draw and then went on a winning streak that secured European qualification.
That moment was key in helping Cucurella regain his confidence and win back the fans.
Redemption on the International Stage
Then came the Euros. Gary Neville famously declared that Spain had no chance with Cucurella in the squad.
But Spain won the whole thing. Cue the memes—only this time, they were celebratory.
Fans even started singing about his massive hair, his love for paella, and his favorite beer, Estrella.
When Cucurella returned to Chelsea, he was a changed man.
He was more confident, more aggressive, and far more appreciated.
The fans who once doubted him were now chanting his name.
A Bond with Enzo and the Spanish-Speaking Squad
Inside the Chelsea dressing room, Cucurella has built strong friendships—especially with fellow Spanish speaker Enzo Fernandez.
The two are notorious for their ability to wind up opponents and inject fire into matches.
That bite is something Maresca values, especially with Chelsea fielding one of the youngest squads in the Premier League.
The Spanish-speaking crew even have their own group chat.
And yes, you can bet it’s full of memes and locker-room banter.
Earning Respect from the Top Brass
After his game-winning goal against Manchester United, co-owner Behdad Eghbali grabbed Cucurella with visible excitement.
The club’s leadership is eyeing a Champions League return and they know Cucurella has been key to that push.
A review of player contracts is coming after the Club World Cup this summer, and while Moises Caicedo might be first in line for a raise, Cucurella’s name isn’t far behind.
Some within the club think he’s been just as valuable—and his goal tally certainly backs that up.
From Laughter to Loyalty: A New Stamford Bridge Hero
When Cucurella steps onto the pitch at the City Ground tomorrow, the home fans may jeer.
But the away end? That’ll be full of cheers.
For Chelsea supporters, he’s gone from a walking punchline to a cult hero.
He’s the proof that resilience, personality, and a whole lot of heart can turn things around—even when your hair gets more attention than your football.
And if he helps Chelsea book a Champions League spot again? You can bet that penguin celebration will be making a return.