Marc Cucurella has claimed English referees are looking to punish him for his role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph over England.

Cucurella was among Spain’s top performers as they romped to glory this summer, grabbing the assist for La Roja’s winning goal in the final in Berlin.

The left-back argued to COPE that Premier League referees are looking for revenge this season, having already shown him the five yellow cards needed to earn a one-game suspension, which he will serve against Liverpool at the weekend.

“Well, I’ve already been suspended for five yellow cards and I’ve committed few fouls; they’re going after me a bit.” the defender said with a smile creeping across his lips. “They jump on me quickly, especially when we play away.

“It’s normal, we won, I was involved in the goal, I’m playing at their home… it’s normal, they’re hurt.”

Indeed, Cucurella has committed just seven fouls so far this season – 69 players have been guilty of more, with Bournemouth’s Lewis Cook leading the charts with 18.

He will serve his one-game suspension alongside centre-back Wesley Fofana, who has also racked up five yellow cards. Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has played down suggestions his side struggle with a discipline problem.

“It’s something we need to improve but overall, I like the team, the way they are fighting,” the Italian coach said. “I like the way they are becoming a team in these kinds of things. I don’t see any problems about that.

“For sure, there are things that we can control and do better, for sure no doubt, and probably this is one of the things. But if you ask me about the team spirit, the way they are fighting together, the way they are doing things together, I’m very happy.”

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