Marc Cucurella explains unique pressure of representing Real Madrid: “Every match is hugely important”

Real Madrid had a summer transfer window to remember, with the club bringing in a number of stars to bolster the squad at Jose Mourinho's disposal.

One such player who arrived with high expectations at the Santiago Bernabeu was Marc Cucurella.

The World Cup winner was expected to be the player who would improve Madrid's squad the most in a position that has been problematic since Marcelo's exit.

Cucurella explains what makes playing for Real Madrid different

Representing Los Blancos has come with expectations that have far exceeded what Marc Cucurella initially anticipated.

The Spaniard has now reflected on the unique responsibility that comes with wearing the Madrid shirt.

"Being a Real Madrid player means that every match against another team is hugely important to them, perhaps the biggest match of the year," the Spanish international explained.

Cucurella has talked about the challenges of playing for Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Having spent years at Barcelona coming through La Masia 's ranks, Cucurella understands both perspectives.

"When I used to play against Madrid, that week was special: everyone wanted to come and see you, and they wrote to you," he recalled.

"Ultimately, having the responsibility of winning every match is a wonderful thing and easy to handle."

Facing Real Madrid is always a big occasion for their opponents, but playing for Los Blancos is a whole different challenge.

A responsibility Cucurella is learning to embrace

Cucurella had a difficult start to life at Real Madrid but has come into his own in recent weeks.

Cucurella is embracing his new life in the Spanish capital. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

His performances have coincided with Los Blancos ' upturn in form, and the Spaniard has firmly established himself as Jose Mourinho's first-choice left-back.

Cucurella is also facing significant competition from Alvaro Carreras, who has done nothing wrong in the chances Mourinho has given him.

Between them, the manager has two high-quality options who can start on any given day, and that is a luxury to have.

Cucurella will hope to put in a good performance against Valencia later tonight as Madrid look to extend their winning run to eight games.

It remains to be seen how the Spaniard fares over the course of the season and how the battle between him and Carreras pans out.