Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella has shared his thoughts ahead of the highly anticipated UEFA Champions League group-stage clash between Chelsea and Barcelona, set for November 25, 2025, at Stamford Bridge.
Cucurella, who plays alongside Lamine Yamal for the Spain national team, admitted that while he is ready to face the teenage sensation at club level, he doesn’t want to risk injuring him as Spain will need Yamal for upcoming international fixtures.
Speaking after Spain’s convincing 3-0 victory over Bulgaria in Thursday’s World Cup qualifier at the National Sports Academy Vasil Levski, Cucurella told reporters:
“I’m ready to face Lamine Yamal at club level. He already told me some stuff, but I can’t injure him because I need him for the national team. It will be difficult for them [Barcelona], we will be at home, but we will see.”
The 20-year-old defender also suggested that the clash will be particularly tough for Barcelona, especially with Chelsea enjoying home advantage at Stamford Bridge.
Yamal, one of the brightest young talents in world football, has been making headlines with his dazzling performances for both Barcelona and Spain, and fans are already eagerly awaiting his showdown with Cucurella in the Champions League.
