Marc Cucurella Shares Message from Chelsea ‘Football Legend’ Hindering Blues’ Path to Club World Cup Final

MARC CUCURELLA has described Thiago Silva as a “football legend” as Chelsea prepares for an emotional reunion with their beloved Brazilian.

The seasoned defender will be part of the Fluminense squad competing against Chelsea in the Club World Cup semi-final on Tuesday.

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Silva, now 40, spent two of his four years at Stamford Bridge alongside Cucurella, and they have already exchanged messages ahead of the match.

Cucurella remarked: “He’s a football legend, a top player. He’s only ever played for prestigious clubs and texted me before the game saying ‘let’s go, hopefully, we can catch up in a few days.’”

“I replied, ‘let’s go.’ We have the chance to face him again, and I hope we achieve great things and win this match to reach the final, which is our goal.”

“We’ve followed some of their games. They possess talented players who are very motivated, with Thiago among them. They’ve reached the semi-final by performing well. It should be a tightly contested match.”

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Chelsea fans in London still sing about Silva and his transfer from PSG, celebrating his role in their Champions League victory in 2021.

With over 100 caps for Brazil, he is regarded as one of the greatest defenders ever.

Cucurella has already experienced playing alongside the future stars of South America, specifically Estevao Willian—the £29million forward set to join Chelsea later this summer.

Estevao played against Cucurella in his final match for Palmeiras last Friday—the Club World Cup quarter-final that Chelsea won 2-1, setting up a highly anticipated clash with Silva.

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Cucurella, aged 26, and teenager Estevao engaged in some physical play that heightened the intensity of the game.

The Spaniard commented: “It’s football; he was doing his job, and I was doing mine. The main thing is that we won and advanced. He had the chance to score a fine goal, so I hope he enjoys his break, rests up, and comes back strong.”

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“It was a challenging match; we faced a tough opponent with numerous skilled players.”

“He gives his all in every play. I see a player with immense talent. We certainly want to support him and help him settle in.”

“However, he has to follow his own path. I believe we possess a top-tier group of players. Our camaraderie is quite strong. I hope he recognizes this and quickly feels part of our team, especially considering the recent turnover of players.”

Cucurella was also impressed with Chelsea’s resilience after conceding against Palmeiras due to a stunning goal by upcoming teammate Estevao.

He stated: “We showed our readiness as a team. We played very well in the first half, and despite needing to endure some pressure in the second half, we remained united and put forth our best effort to win.”

“Brazilian teams demonstrate a high level of skill and have proven their worth in this tournament right up to the final stages. Now we brace for another challenging match against Fluminense.”

“We will face Thiago Silva, and I believe that will be very special. For now, we aim to rest, prepare thoroughly for the match, and confront it in the best manner possible.”

“Having already faced two Brazilian teams, we now prepare for a third. These teams fight relentlessly until the final whistle.”

“We are thrilled to progress to the next round, gaining valuable experience against South American teams, which is uncommon for us. Overall, we are enjoying this tournament.”

Chelsea faltered in their group match against Flamengo, squandering a lead to lose 3-1 while also seeing striker Nicolas Jackson sent off.

However, Malo Gusto is optimistic about the team’s growing mentality. Despite historical criticism of Chelsea’s mental resilience, the Frenchman is convinced they are becoming tougher.

He expressed: “During this competition, our mental fortitude has been crucial. It’s why we have reached the semi-final, as we have demonstrated this in every match.”

“I believe it’s the key, 100 percent. We acknowledge that the conditions are demanding, the pitch is challenging, and all teams are formidable. We have to navigate these obstacles.”

“This is precisely why this competition is so challenging, and we feel gratified to have made it this far.”

“If we can overcome these challenges, we can achieve anything. Therefore, we must believe in ourselves, give our best effort, and see what lies ahead.”