Marc Cucurella once again finds himself at the center of a handball controversy, reigniting painful memories for German fans.
During Chelsea’s 0-3 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion on April 22, 2026, the Spanish defender appeared to handle the ball in the penalty area after a cross struck his left upper arm in the 54th minute. Cucurella reacted by tapping his chest repeatedly, seemingly signaling to the referee that the ball had hit him there.
Brighton players surrounded the official, gesturing angrily for a penalty kick, but no call was made. The video assistant referee also did not intervene.
The incident immediately drew comparisons to Cucurella’s controversial handball in the Euro 2024 quarterfinal against Germany, where he blocked a Jamal Musiala shot with his arm during extra time. Although the English referee allowed play to continue, UEFA later admitted the mistake. Spain went on to win 2-1 via a goal from Mikel Merino, eliminating Germany from the tournament.
Speaking ahead of Spain’s Nations League fixture in Germany, Cucurella acknowledged the lingering tension. “They will whistle again, I am prepared for it,” he said. “It’s part of football, I have done nothing wrong.”
He added that the focus on him could benefit his teammates. “That the attention is now on me can help my teammates and feel liberating for them,” Cucurella noted. “the memories are all beautiful. We did win the title.”
