Bernabéu honours World Cup champions
Bernabéu honours World Cup champions
The Santiago Bernabéu stadium recently hosted a tribute for Marc Cucurella and Mikel Oyarzabal, celebrating their success in the World Cup. The event took place during Real Madrid’s La Liga clash with Real Sociedad. Cucurella, a new signing for Real Madrid, was honoured for his role in Spain’s victory. Oyarzabal, representing Real Sociedad, also received recognition for his contributions to the national team’s triumph.
The tribute saw the World Cup trophy displayed on a raised platform on the pitch. Following the opening coin toss, Cucurella’s name was announced, leading to a strong reception from the crowd. The stadium chanted his name, marking a significant moment for the player. Oyarzabal, a key figure for Real Sociedad, also received acclaim from the Bernabéu faithful.
The two world champions came together for a commemorative photo with the trophy, symbolising their shared achievement. This event highlighted the appreciation for their efforts in securing Spain’s second star.
Cucurella’s journey to Real Madrid
Cucurella officially joined Real Madrid before the World Cup, with his transfer from Chelsea completed for $64 million. Despite being a Chelsea player when named to the World Cup squad, Real Madrid chose to honour him for his national team success. He started every match at the World Cup and was a notable performer for the winning team.
His move to Real Madrid brings him back to Spanish football after five years. Cucurella had previously played in La Liga with Eibar and Getafe before moving to Brighton in 2021 and then to Chelsea. His time in England included official appearances across both clubs, with in the Premier League. He also achieved victories in the Conference League and Club World Cup with Chelsea.
Cucurella’s integration into José Mourinho’s squad was delayed due to his participation in the World Cup. He has since made his first two appearances for Real Madrid, featuring in a preseason friendly against Schalke and in a La Liga opener against Espanyol.
Special recognition for Oyarzabal
Mikel Oyarzabal, who scored goals during Spain’s World Cup campaign, was also a central part of the tribute. His presence alongside Cucurella underscored the collective achievement of the national team. The event at the Bernabéu was part of a series of ceremonies organised by the Spanish Soccer Federation at stadiums across the country to honour players who contributed to Spain’s World Cup victory.
The tribute at the Bernabéu was a moment for both players to receive the gratitude of the crowd. The Spanish national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, was expected to attend the ceremony from the directors’ box, mirroring his presence at similar events at Atlético Madrid’s Metropolitano and Athletic Club’s San Mamés.
The last time the Bernabéu held a similar tribute for World Cup champions was in 2010. That occasion involved a larger contingent of Real Madrid players, including Iker Casillas, Álvaro Arbeloa, Raúl Albiol, Sergio Ramos, and Xabi Alonso.
In addition to the tribute, the match against Real Sociedad also marked José Mourinho’s return to the Bernabéu after 13 years. The stadium also welcomed new signings such as Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konaté, Bernardo Silva, Ousmane Diomande, and Carlos Espí.
After the match, the stadium’s traditional anthem, the Himno de las Mocitas Madrileñas, was played for long-time supporters.
Cucurella spoke about the significance of joining Real Madrid and his ambitions for the coming years. He said: “It’s an honor. It’s a very special day. Summer has felt long, but it’s an honor to wear this shirt, the shirt of the best club in the world. I hope it will be a great chapter and we can win many titles.” He also highlighted his desire to win the Champions League and experience playing at the Santiago Bernabéu as a Real Madrid player, stating: “I hope I’m lucky enough to have some great seasons and win a Champions League trophy. I’m really looking forward to playing at the Bernabéu; I know how imposing it is and the influence it has on comebacks. It’s going to be one of the best stages of my career, and I hope things go well so we can make the Madrid fans happy.”
He officially signed a contract with Real Madrid until June 2032.
Source: goal.com
Priya Menon 