Cucurella admits he was ready to 'Go on his knees' to join Manchester City

Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella has openly admitted how badly he wanted to join Manchester City in 2022, revealing he was prepared to do almost anything to secure a move to the Etihad.

The Spanish defender was strongly linked with Pep Guardiola’s side following a standout season at Brighton, but the deal collapsed after the Seagulls demanded a higher transfer fee than City were willing to pay.

Speaking in a recent interview with Movistar, Cucurella described the moment Manchester City expressed interest as an opportunity he was desperate to take.

The former Barcelona youth product said there was no doubt in his mind at the time: "Man City wanted me before I joined Chelsea. They were on fire, one of the best teams in the world."

He went on to explain that working with Guardiola, a coach he has admired since childhood, was a major motivator.

He added, "I wanted to go. When they come as they did, when Guardiola asks, you’ll go on your knees if necessary."

Despite his desire, Brighton’s asking price became a stumbling block. Manchester City reportedly refused to meet the club’s valuation, allowing Chelsea to eventually swoop in and secure a £62m transfer.

Cucurella insists the negotiations were out of his hands; "Brighton had demands that were out of the market, and it couldn’t be done."

Since joining Chelsea, Cucurella has experienced mixed fortunes, competing for a starting position amid system changes and managerial transitions.