Marc Cucurella’s replacement could already be at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s decision to sell Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid marks the end of an important chapter for the club, but it may also open the door for Jorrel Hato to become a key figure in the team’s future.
While Cucurella leaves after establishing himself as one of Chelsea’s most reliable performers, the Dutch defender now appears perfectly positioned to take on a much bigger role.
In August 2025, Hato arrived from Ajax with a growing reputation, but his first few months in England were far from straightforward. Competition for places and limited opportunities meant he spent much of the first half of the season on the fringes of the squad.
Despite being regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young defenders, he struggled to secure regular minutes. However, the second half of the campaign proved to be a turning point.
Why Chelsea Believe Hato Can Be Cucurella’s Replacement
As managerial changes and injury concerns reshaped the team, Hato gradually became a more important figure in Chelsea’s plans.
He earned more playing time, gained valuable experience and began to show why the club invested heavily in bringing him to London.
His performances impressed both supporters and figures within the club.
What stood out most was not only his technical ability but also his composure. Despite his age, Hato looked comfortable in high-pressure matches and rarely appeared overwhelmed by the demands of Premier League football.
Chelsea’s coaching staff increasingly trusted him in major fixtures. He featured in important league matches and cup competitions, demonstrating an ability to perform against some of the strongest teams in England.
For a player who had struggled for opportunities earlier in the season, the turnaround was remarkable.
It is no surprise that many within the club now view him as the leading candidate to become Cucurella’s replacement in the starting line-up.
Cucurella vs Hato: A Changing of the Guard
The departure of Cucurella gives Hato an even greater chance to establish himself as a regular starter.
Any discussion around Cucurella vs Hato inevitably involves experience versus potential.
Cucurella leaves as an established international who contributed significantly to Chelsea over the past two years. After a difficult start following his move from Brighton, he eventually became one of the team’s most dependable performers.
Hato, meanwhile, is still at the beginning of his journey. Yet Chelsea believe the young defender possesses the qualities needed to become a long-term success at Stamford Bridge.
The club’s willingness to sanction such a major move suggests confidence in their existing options.
Having a player capable of becoming Cucurella’s replacement undoubtedly made the decision easier.
Chelsea Transfer Plans Point to Hato’s Growing Importance
The latest Chelsea transfer activity reflects a club planning for both the present and the future.
Rather than immediately searching for a direct replacement, Chelsea are reportedly looking at versatile players who can cover multiple positions. That approach suggests the club already trusts Hato to take on increased responsibility next season.
His versatility is another major advantage, with the young Dutchman can play as both a left-back, and a left-sided centre-back.
The debate around Cucurella vs Hato is not simply about who is the better player today. It is also about which player best fits Chelsea’s long-term vision. Hato’s age, adaptability, and potential make him a valuable asset for the years ahead.
The ongoing Chelsea transfer strategy appears to support that view, as the club appear to be rethinking their previous strategy under BlueCo.
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A Huge Opportunity Under Xabi Alonso
The arrival of new manager Xabi Alonso could further accelerate Hato’s development.
His ability to learn quickly and adapt to different positions may prove especially valuable under the Spaniard.
Chelsea also have other defensive options available.
Centre-back Levi Colwill is expected to play a major role after returning from a long-term injury, club captain Reece James and Josh Acheampong remain central to plans, while the likes of Trevoh Chalobah are no longer linked with a move away. There are also several younger players continuing to develop within the club’s system.
Even so, Hato appears set to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of the summer changes. The fact that he is already being discussed as ‘Cucurella’s replacement’ highlights how quickly his standing within the squad has grown.
Another important factor in the Chelsea transfer window is squad depth. The club are expected to strengthen in several areas, but there is little indication that they are searching aggressively for a specialist left-back, with Alonso reportedly more than happy to work with the young Dutchman.
That places even more attention on Hato. The expectations surrounding him are rising rapidly.
His rise has been driven by more than talent alone. The way he responded to setbacks and limited opportunities has impressed those around the club. Rather than becoming frustrated by a lack of playing time, he continued working and took advantage of his chances when they arrived.
That resilience could prove just as important as his footballing ability.
Chelsea are entering another period of change, with a new manager, new objectives and major decisions being made across the squad.
Young players often struggle to thrive in such circumstances, but Hato appears to have positioned himself perfectly to benefit.
The 2026/27 Premier League season will present new challenges, particularly if he is asked to fill the void left by Cucurella. Yet the signs are encouraging.
Chelsea believe they have one of Europe’s most promising young defenders on their hands. If his progress continues at the current rate, the decision to sell Cucurella could ultimately be remembered as the moment that allowed Cucurella’s replacement to truly emerge.
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