Wayne Bridge claims one Chelsea player is now a major fan favourite after a tough start to life at Stamford Bridge.
This current Chelsea squad are unlikely to be adored by supporters until they transform into winners, but there are several shining lights that have stood out this season.
If results go their way in the final two matches of this campaign, the entire outlook of Enzo Maresca’s side could be different.
First of all, the Blues face Nottingham Forest on the final day of the Premier League season with Champions League qualification hanging in the balance. Afterwards, they face Real Betis in the Conference League final.
Wayne Bridge claims Chelsea supporters love Marc Cucurella
Wayne Bridge, the former Blues star, has delivered a glowing verdict on Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella for his incredible turnaround.
The Spanish left-back wasn’t the most popular individual during his first two years at Stamford Bridge, but he’s found his very best form during an extremely consistent third season.
When discussing Chelsea defender Cucurella, Bridge said on The Dressing Room Podcast: “Chelsea fans didn’t really take to him that well. He might have been doing alright; he just wasn’t great. I think a lot of Chelsea fans weren’t sure. They love him now. He’s been brilliant all season.”
Jamie Carragher thinks Marc Cucurella’s turnaround in Chelsea colours this season is largely down to his role within the system. Since Maresca took charge as the Blues head coach, he’s used the left-back in a very offensive way that encourages him to get around the opposition’s penalty area.
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Premier League | 35 | 5 | 2 |
| Conference League | 8 | 2 | 1 |
| FA Cup | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| Carabao Cup | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Conference League qualifiers | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Scott Minto massively respects Marc Cucurella for becoming a key player for both club and country.
On the international stage, Cucurella has emerged as a key player for Spain after helping them win Euro 2024. Similarly, the energetic full-back is now one of the star names who’s consistently performing for Chelsea.
Chelsea are relying on Marc Cucurella more than they should in 2025
Chelsea’s bid to secure a top-five finish in the Premier League and Champions League qualification has gone right down to the wire.
The Blues’ league form has been very inconsistent in the second half of the season. Without Cucurella, they could be in huge trouble right now.
It’s remarkable to see that the left-back is Chelsea’s top goalscorer in the Premier League in this calendar year.
The form of Cucurella in this 2024/25 season is a throwback to what former Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso used to do with plenty of important goals. However, the major difference is that he operated as a wing-back.
