Cucurella: UEFA changed the rules because of me!

 

Marc Cucurella has spoken about one of the most controversial moments of Euro 2024, his handball incident during Spain’s quarter-final against Germany. The Chelsea defender was at the centre of worldwide debate after the ball struck his arm inside the box late in the match. Despite huge protests from the German players and fans, the referee did not award a penalty. Spain went on to secure a dramatic 2-1 win thanks to a late goal from Mikel Merino before going on to lift the trophy by beating England in the final.

Speaking to Spanish outlet AS, Cucurella admitted the incident changed football laws. “Yes, that handball has been talked about all over the world. In fact, UEFA came to give us a talk and used my handball against Germany as an example. They told me it was because of me that they had to change the rules,” he said.

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Cucurella stressed that he did not intend to handle the ball, explaining the shot was struck at him from close range and his arm was hit naturally. “I didn’t do it on purpose. Man, I would have been the most hated guy in Spain,” he joked.

The decision not to award Germany a penalty was seen as a defining moment of Euro 2024, sparking widespread debate about how handball laws are applied in football. Critics argued the rules were inconsistent and unfair, while others felt the referee’s call was correct under the wording at the time. UEFA has since clarified its position, using Cucurella’s case in referee briefings as a reason to amend and simplify the handball rule.

For Cucurella, the episode has become part of his football legacy, whether he likes it or not. While the controversy brought criticism from Germany and neutrals, he now looks back on it as an extraordinary example of how quickly football can change. The full-back is currently enjoying one of the best periods of his career, having signed a new Chelsea contract and lifted both the Club World Cup and the UEFA Conference League with the London side.

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Now 27, Cucurella is also an established figure for Spain and is targeting his first World Cup appearance at the 2026 tournament in North America. Spain’s qualifying campaign continues with back-to-back fixtures against Bulgaria and Turkey, where he is expected to play a key role under Luis de la Fuente.