The Spaniard starred in both our games against Brighton last season, tight 1-1 draws, but it turns out that was not the first time Tuchel set eyes on Cucurella.

‘It was a big surprise because he met me when I played in Barcelona academy,’ revealed Cucurella at his introductory press conference at Cobham today.

‘He is a big gaffer so it was a big surprise and I don’t know why he met me, but I’m very happy to be here. He gave me this big opportunity so I need to work hard for him.

‘The level of the team is very high. To win trophies is difficult but we will work hard all season for these moments. The team have experience of big trophies, and our objective this season is to win trophies.’

Cucurella explained Chelsea had shown interest in him all summer so it made the decision to leave Brighton and head to London an easy one. The six-year contract he signed grabbed some headlines.

‘It’s a long time, but for my best football and when you go to a new club, you need some months to adapt,’ pointed out Cucurella in response.

‘I’m not pressured, in my mind it’s not six years, it’s just about working hard for the team, and enjoying my football. It’s just the papers, I’m happy to stay here more years.

‘It’s a big step for my career. I have the opportunity to play in the Champions League, to fight to win trophies, to stay high in the league. If I play good for a good club, I have more opportunities to play with the national team.’

Cucurella also had positive words on his first experience of playing at Stamford Bridge as a Blue, and he felt our display against Tottenham matched the energy in the stands.

‘To play at home was very nice, the stadium is very famous, very historic, and the atmosphere is very good, the fans all the time sing.

‘We played really good, we created a lot of chances to win the game and our performance was really good.’