)
The Real Madrid youngster's technical ability and maturity belied his age, and he was often compared to legendary midfielder Xabi Alonso.
Real Madrid's youth academy star, Marc Cucalon has been forced to retire from football at the age of 19 due to persistent injury issues.
The midfielder suffered a serious knee injury in September 2022 and, despite undergoing multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation, was unable to recover fully.
A rare bacterial infection complicated his recovery, ultimately leading to the heartbreaking decision to end his career.
Cucalon's retirement is a big loss for Real Madrid, who had high hopes for the young player. His technical ability and maturity belied his age, and he was often compared to legendary midfielder Xabi Alonso.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Cucalon expressed his disappointment and gratitude for his time at Real Madrid.
He acknowledged the challenges he faced and the lessons he learned throughout his career.
)
"I didn't know how to start this letter. So I'll do it by saying THANK YOU to everyone. From the heart. For all the support you have given me during this time.
"I arrived at the Real Madrid academy in the summer of 2016 as a kid with a backpack full of dreams and I was very, very happy. And the truth that my life changed completely on September 6, 2022, when I was seriously injured in a Youth League game.
"After several complications, that injury has forced me to make the tough decision to say GOODBYE to football, at least in the way I had always dreamed of. For these past two years I have struggled physically and mentally with all my might and I have tried everything in my power to enjoy this sport again, but it has not been possible to recover. Don't get me wrong: this is not a sad farewell at all.
)
23:09 - 05.11.2024
Boniface fails Liverpool test as Luis Diaz tears Leverkusen apart to ruin Alonso homecoming
It was not the game at Anfield that Xabi Alonso or Victor Boniface hoped for as the Reds decimated Bayer Leverkusen
"After all, I think I have been truly privileged to have been part of the best club in the world and to have lived a dream. I've learned and matured as a person and as a player. I carry with me for the rest of my life the values that have been instilled in me and, of course, football has taught me in every triumph and in every defeat: you always have to overcome and keep fighting to overcome obstacles.
"Those lessons will be part of my life forever. It is time to look back and be thankful for all the people who have been beside me on this journey. Endless thanks to my family. Thanks to my parents, who have always supported me in every decision and every stone along the way.
"It's true that leaving home to fulfill my dream was difficult. But seeing their faces of happiness when they saw me enjoying on the playground became my greatest pride. Thanks also to my friends, the unconditional ones who have never failed me," he said.
The footballing community has extended its support to Cucalon, with many expressing their sympathy and admiration for his courage and resilience.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)