Spain defender Marc Cucurella has stunned the football world by revealing that Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final against Argentina could mark the final international appearance of his career.
The Chelsea left back has announced that he intends to retire from international football if Spain overcome defending champions Argentina to lift the World Cup trophy, believing that winning the two biggest prizes in international football would leave him with nothing else to accomplish in the famous red shirt.
The announcement comes as Spain prepare for one of the most important matches in the nation’s football history. Victory over Lionel Messi’s Argentina would hand La Roja their second FIFA World Cup title and crown an extraordinary era under head coach Luis de la Fuente.
For Cucurella, however, the occasion carries even greater personal significance.
A Perfect Ending in Sight
Speaking ahead of the final, the 27 year old defender explained that capturing the World Cup after already winning the UEFA European Championship in 2024 would represent the perfect conclusion to his international journey.
“If we win the World Cup, I’ll call Luis the next day and tell him not to count on me anymore because I’m retiring from the national team,” Cucurella said.
“With a European Championship and a World Cup, I can’t do any better.”
His comments have surprised supporters across Spain, especially considering that he remains one of the youngest experienced defenders in the national team and is expected to remain at the highest level for several more years.
Rather than extending his international career, Cucurella believes ending on football’s biggest stage would be the ideal farewell.
One of Spain’s Most Reliable Players
Cucurella has been among Spain’s standout performers throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The energetic full back has played every minute of the tournament, providing defensive stability while also contributing to Spain’s attacking play with his overlapping runs, accurate crossing and relentless work rate.
His consistency has made him one of Luis de la Fuente’s most trusted players, forming an important part of a defence that has frustrated some of the world’s strongest attacking teams.
Spain reached the final after an impressive campaign that included victories over several top nations, culminating in a convincing semi final win over France.
The defensive discipline displayed throughout the competition has been one of the key reasons behind La Roja’s return to the summit of world football.
From Criticism to International Stardom
Cucurella’s rise has been anything but straightforward.
A product of Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy, he struggled to establish himself in the first team before moving away in search of regular football.
Successful spells with Eibar and Getafe showcased his determination and versatility before Brighton signed him in the Premier League.
His outstanding performances in England earned him a high profile move to Chelsea, where he initially faced criticism following his expensive transfer fee.
Despite those early challenges, the defender rebuilt his confidence and gradually established himself as one of the Premier League’s most dependable left backs.
His excellent displays at Euro 2024 played a major role in Spain’s triumph and cemented his place as first choice under De la Fuente.
That momentum has continued into the World Cup, where he has become one of the team’s most influential leaders.
A Unique Tribute to His Coach
Retirement is not the only promise Cucurella has made before the final.
The Chelsea defender also revealed he intends to honour Spain manager Luis de la Fuente with a permanent tattoo if La Roja defeat Argentina.
Known for his distinctive curly hair, energetic personality and sense of humour, Cucurella said he would tattoo the coach’s face on his bicep as a tribute to the manager who transformed Spain into world title contenders.
The unusual pledge has generated widespread discussion among supporters and reflects the close relationship between the players and their coach.
Since taking charge, De la Fuente has rebuilt Spain into one of the most exciting teams in international football by blending experienced stars with a new generation of young talents.
The Biggest Test Awaits
Standing between Spain and football immortality is an Argentina side led by legendary captain Lionel Messi.
The South American champions booked their place in the final after producing a dramatic comeback victory over England and now have the opportunity to successfully defend the World Cup crown.
Spain, meanwhile, will rely on their trademark possession football, disciplined defence and attacking creativity from stars including Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal and Dani Olmo.
Cucurella is expected to play a crucial role in containing Argentina’s dangerous attacking players while also supporting Spain’s forward play from the left flank.
Legacy on the Line
Should Spain defeat Argentina, Cucurella would leave international football having achieved what very few players in history have managed by winning both the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup.
It would complete a remarkable journey for a player who overcame setbacks, criticism and doubts to become one of Spain’s most dependable defenders.
Whether he follows through on his retirement promise remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: all eyes will be on Cucurella as Spain chase global glory in what could become the most memorable match of his career.
If La Roja lift the World Cup trophy, the final against Argentina may not only mark Spain’s return to the top of world football but also the emotional farewell of one of the team’s modern-day warriors.
