Valverde doesn't rule out Cucurella coming back to Barça in future

Ernesto Valverde praised Marc Cucurella's development at Eibar, who face Barcelona at Camp Nou on Sunday in LaLiga.

When asked about Cucurella and his form in the Basque Country, the Barça coach praised the on-loan defender. "He is having a great season and that is great news for him, for Eibar and us, because he's from the academy."

Valverde pointed out that he's benefitted from playing in a different position: "He started at left-back a few times but now he's playing in midfield and he's producing great performances."  

Asked if could return to Barça, the coach added: "We are well covered in the midfield position he is playing, but it's good news [he is doing well]."

Valverde said it's a plus that he's working under Jose Luis Mendilibar: "You have to keep in mind that all the Barça B players have to take the step into the Primera and it's a great step to take with Mendilibar, I assure you that. He makes players better." 

Pressed again on a possible return, Valverde finished: "Cucurella spent last year in the second division and this year's in the top flight and doing well, so who knows in the future. He's a player that could return, of course."