Spain defender Marc Cucurella says no trophy or fortune can compare to seeing his son Mateo healthy, as he opens up about the emotional reality of raising a child with autism.
Spain international defender Marc Cucurella has moved football fans around the world with an emotional reflection on his family’s personal struggle, saying that no amount of success or wealth could compare to seeing his son healthy.
In an interview shared on the Spanish-language YouTube channel Pau Pautista, Cucurella said, “My son has autism. I wish I didn’t have a single penny if it meant my son could be healthy.” His remarks have resonated widely, highlighting the challenges many families face while raising children with autism spectrum disorder.
Despite enjoying one of the most successful careers in European football, Cucurella acknowledged that fame, trophies and financial success offer little comfort when a child is facing developmental challenges. He said that watching his son struggle remains one of the most painful experiences of his life.
Cucurella and his partner, Claudia Rodríguez, have previously spoken publicly about their eldest son, Mateo, who was born in 2019. According to the couple, they first noticed developmental differences when Mateo was around 13 months old after starting nursery. He rarely made eye contact and did not consistently respond when his name was called. Medical evaluations later confirmed that he was on the autism spectrum.
The couple also discussed their experience in Amazon Prime’s documentary series Married to the Game, where they revealed that learning of Mateo’s diagnosis was emotionally overwhelming. They admitted they cried daily while trying to understand how best to support their son.
Mateo initially attended a mainstream school, but the experience proved difficult. Cucurella explained that his son often became overwhelmed, cried after only a few hours and had to be picked up early. The family has since adapted its daily routine around Mateo’s needs, carefully considering travel, school, therapy and changes in environment. During international tournaments, Cucurella has also noted that his son is sensitive to loud crowds and prefers calm, quiet surroundings.
The footballer has said that his family’s needs now play a major role in career decisions. Before considering any move to a new club, he first ensures that suitable educational and therapy services are available for Mateo.
Meanwhile, a widely circulated social media claim suggesting Cucurella keeps his signature long hair so his son can recognize him more easily has been debunked. Fact-checks and the player’s earlier interviews indicate that he has worn long hair since the beginning of his senior career, explaining that the style was originally encouraged by his mother so she could easily identify him during football matches.
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