“So the reason why” – Maresca reveals exactly why Cucurella’s played so well this season | OneFootball

Enzo Maresca believes the reason Marc Cucurella is doing so well this season is because the way Chelsea play is what he’s good at.

Cucurella scored the winner against Manchester United, his fifth goal of 2025, making him Chelsea’s top scorer this calendar year.

The win means Chelsea keep their Champions League hopes alive and now must beat Nottingham Forest on the final day to guarantee their return to Europe’s premier club competition.

Maresca praises Cucurella

Cucurella really struggled in his first season following his £63m move from Brighton, but he finished last season strongly and hasn’t looked back.

The Spaniard’s redemption at Chelsea is quite a story and not only is he now a firm fan favourite he’s also one of the club’s most important players.

Cucurella has been one of Chelsea’s best players this season. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Cucurella has been outstanding this season, with the inverted full back role really suiting his skillset as a player, whilst he’s also become a huge threat in the opposition box.

Maresca was asked about Cucurella’s turnaround at Chelsea and believes the system is one of the main reasons why.

“Cucu has a background with the Barcelona academy, La Masia,” he told his post-match press conference.

“He grew up in a club where the philosophy or the idea that I like is similar. So the reason why Cucu is doing so good with us is also because we know him, what he can do and the way we like to play is exactly the way that is good for him. So it’s in both ways.”

Chelsea target Hato as alternative let back

As good as Cucurella is the Blues lack an alternative option at left back in the squad, with Renato Veiga likely to leave the club this summer.

Reece James and Malo Gusto have filled in occasionally in his absence this season, but if anything were to happen to the 26-year-old Chelsea would have a big problem.

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The Blues have identified Ajax teenager Jorrel Hato as a target to fill that role, and the 19-year-old is a left back who can also play at centre back.

Hato’s profile means he would suit the system well, and he fits Chelsea’s recruitment model, with the youngster believed to be available for around €50m.