Chelsea star with 93% pass completion on international duty key to Enzo Maresca’s plan to beat Burnley
Marc Cucurella bagged an assist for Spain in their 2-2 draw with Turkey on 18 November.
One of Chelsea and Brighton’s previous transfers, the Spaniard has soared at Stamford Bridge, becoming one of the most integral players under Enzo Maresca.
The former Seagull has started 10 of his 11 Premier League matches this season, highlighting his importance to the Blues.
Away from west London, the 27-year-old continued to impress as he helped Spain seal World Cup qualification in the November internationals.
Cucurella integral to Spain success as they look to build upon Euro 2024 glory
La Roja overturned a 2-1 deficit to level the tie, topping Group E as they booked their place in the World Cup next summer.
Spain took on a talented Turkey side who put up an excellent fight, implementing a devastating counterattacking game that nearly got the better of the hosts.
Cucurella was pivotal in teeing up Dani Olmo’s opener in the fourth minute, pulling back a cross from a tight angle to the middle of the six-yard box.
Creatively, the number three was marvellous, creating one big chance and delivering four crosses to try and trouble the Turks.
| Selected stats vs Turkey (18 November) | Marc Cucurella |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Big chances created | 1 |
| Key passes | 1 |
| Crosses (accurate) | 4 (1) |
| Passes completed (%) | 69/74 (93%) |
| Touches | 85 |
Moreover, he completed 69 of his 74 passes with a 93 per cent accuracy rate as he maintained a high position down the left-hand side.
His 85 touches reflect his desire to get on the ball and make something happen, an aspect of his play which Maresca adores.
Cucurella’s direct playing style to be key in unlocking Burnley backline
With Enzo Fernandez a doubt for the Burnley clash, onus will be on Chelsea‘s other star players to deliver.
The Clarets are only beaten by West Ham and Wolves for goals conceded this season as they look to call on the Turf Moor faithful for some much needed support.
Expected to set up in a low-block back four or even back five, the Blues will need to overcome their issue of trying break down this vein of team.
The Spaniard will be pushed to play high, inverting into the middle of the park to cause overloads to trouble Scott Parker’s defence.