Marc Cucurella played a vital role as Spain’s most consistent performers as La Roja lifted the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday night by defeating Argentina 1-0.
As a result, the Real Madrid full-back has secured his place in football history, becoming the first player to win both the FIFA Club World Cup and the FIFA World Cup.
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A Historic Feat
In the World Cup final, only two players had the opportunity to achieve this unprecedented double: Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernandez.
Both were part of the Chelsea squad that claimed the inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the summer of last year in the USA.
However, with Spain’s triumph over Argentina, Cucurella stands out as the only player to accomplish this unique double.
Different from the Intercontinental Cup
While players have previously won both the FIFA World Cup and the Intercontinental Cup, that achievement is regarded as distinct from the new FIFA Club World Cup format introduced last year.
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Pele was the first to achieve the earlier double in 1962, winning the World Cup with Brazil and the Intercontinental Cup with Santos.
Although the Intercontinental Cup is part of football history, it is a different competition from FIFA’s modern global club tournament.
As a result, Cucurella now uniquely holds the title of being the only footballer to win both the contemporary FIFA Club World Cup and the FIFA World Cup.
A Remarkable Year
Securing either title is a career-defining milestone for most players.
World champion at club and international levels. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
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Cucurella accomplished both titles within a single year, solidifying his status in football history with an unmatched feat.
“It’s not easy to get here. It’s tough during your teenage years; you have to make decisions. Sometimes there are people who tell you you’re not good enough and that you won’t make it,” Cucurella said after the match.
“To all those people, I’d like to thank them for taking the time to give me their advice. Also to everyone who has helped me – we’ve both been stubborn. Today we’ve been rewarded for being here. It hasn’t been an easy summer for us, so we’re really happy.”
Real Madrid signed Cucurella from Chelsea for a total fee of €60 million, which includes a €55 million initial payment and an additional €5 million (£4.3 million) in add-ons. He has committed to a six-year contract with Los Blancos until the summer of 2031.
After a successful tournament, during which he made a notable impression, Cucurella is set to enjoy a three-week break before joining Real Madrid for the upcoming season.