Marc Cucurella has made a striking declaration ahead of Spain's World Cup final clash against Argentina, pledging to retire from international football if La Roja claim the tournament. The left-back, who has started every match during Spain's run to the final, believes capturing both the European Championship and World Cup would represent the pinnacle of his career with the national team and leave nothing left to accomplish.
Speaking to L'Equipe, the 27-year-old explained his reasoning with characteristic directness. "If we win the World Cup, I'll call Luis the next day and tell him not to count on me anymore, that I'm retiring from the national team," Cucurella said, referencing manager Luis de la Fuente. "With a European Championship and a World Cup, I can't do any better." The defender's commitment reflects both his satisfaction with Spain's resurgence under De la Fuente and his belief that the 2024 European Championship victory combined with a World Cup triumph would constitute a complete international legacy.
More Than Just Retirement: The Tattoo Pledge
Cucurella's promises extend beyond simply hanging up his international boots. The eccentric full-back, known for his distinctive personality and eye-catching hairstyle, has committed to permanently immortalizing his manager if Spain emerge victorious. During an interview with Fox Sports, he revealed: "I would get a little tattoo of Spain manager Luis de la Fuente's face on my bicep if we were to win the World Cup." This unusual tribute underscores the strong bond between player and coach that has transformed Spain's fortunes since De la Fuente took charge.
Throughout the tournament, Cucurella has been an ever-present in Spain's defensive line, demonstrating the reliability that has made him indispensable to La Roja's campaign. His form has been central to Spain's ability to reach the final in North America, where they now face the defending champions Argentina. Should Spain prevail, Cucurella's World Cup final appearance could become the final chapter of his international career—cementing his status among Spain's modern defenders while adding his name to a select group who have won football's greatest prizes at both club and country level.
For now, the defender's focus remains entirely on the task ahead: helping Spain navigate Argentina's challenge and delivering what would be his country's second World Cup title in history.
