Marc Cucurella has been widely praised after allowing his postman, Gary, to hold his World Cup winners’ medal during a delivery to the Spain defender’s home.
Cucurella, who has recently joined Real Madrid, is still celebrating Spain’s memorable World Cup triumph. Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final, with Cucurella part of the squad that secured the historic victory.
The defender’s gesture towards Gary, a postman with whom he has built a good relationship, attracted attention after Gary shared details of the meeting on social media.
Gary said Cucurella had shown considerable humility by giving him the opportunity to wear the medal. He also posted photographs of the moment, including one showing the medal around his neck and another selfie with the player.
Writing on Instagram, Gary said: “I had a wonderful opportunity to speak to World Cup winner Marc Cucurella while delivering mail to his home.”
He added: “He is a kind and humble person, and he allowed me to hold the World Cup winner’s medal. I think I am the first Englishman to hold a World Cup winner’s medal in 60 years.”
The photographs also highlighted a new look for Cucurella. The Spain international appeared with neat, hanging braids after moving away from the thick, curly hairstyle that has become familiar to supporters.
The story prompted a strong reaction from fans, many of whom praised Cucurella’s character as well as his performances during Spain’s World Cup campaign.
One supporter described him as “a very respectable man”, adding that he was not arrogant despite winning the tournament and also carried out a great deal of charity work.
Another wrote: “He is truly a wonderful person. I loved this story so much.”
A third fan said: “The more I learn about him, the more I admire him.”
Some supporters admitted that Cucurella’s conduct and personality had made it “difficult to hate him”. The defender had already made a strong impression during the World Cup, both through his displays on the pitch and the way he conducted himself away from it.
His relationship with supporters was strengthened further after he explained why he deliberately keeps his hair long. Cucurella said the hairstyle helps his autistic son recognise him among the players during matches.
That explanation had previously touched fans, adding a personal dimension to the player’s public image. His latest gesture towards Gary has now brought further attention to the Spain international’s modesty as he continues to enjoy the aftermath of the country’s World Cup success.
The postman’s social media posts, featuring the medal and the selfie with Cucurella, helped the story spread widely and led to renewed appreciation for the player’s friendly manner.
