Carles Puyol is a fan favorite at Barcelona. Despite the many seasons that have passed since he last represented the team as a player, he is still used as the yardstick to measure any new and promising central defender coming through the ranks.
He remains an idol for many young players. Puyol has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind, always offering praise where it’s due but also criticism if warranted.
In a recent interview quoted by SPORT, Puyol had special words for former Barcelona striker Luis Suarez who left the Catalan club in 2020. Although the duo never shared the pitch, that hasn’t stopped the Spaniard from talking about the Inter Miami striker. He said:
“With Luis, we just crossed paths because I was in the sporting department for a few months, but then I decided to leave.”
Puyol also expressed his regret at not having the chance to play alongside the Uruguayan forward, believing they would have connected well. He went on to describe him as a ‘fantastic’ player:
“Luis brought us many titles. He’s a fantastic player who connected with incredible teammates. What I regret the most is not being able to enjoy him as a teammate because we surely would have gotten along well.”
The Spanish legend also congratulated him on having a successful career so far and claimed that they share a similar understanding of the sport:
“I identify a lot with his way of understanding this sport, and I truly congratulate him for the career he’s had. And he’s still winning titles.”
Luis Suarez needs no introduction at Barcelona. His stats tell the story. In 283 games across all competitions for the Catalan club, he scored 195 goals and provided 113 assists, averaging more than a goal contribution per game during his time there.
The Uruguayan striker is one of the best of his generation. His peak was unparalleled, especially during his time at Liverpool and most of his tenure with Barcelona. He has since had solid stints at Atletico Madrid and now, Inter Miami.
Robert Lewandowski may have had a more prolonged career at the top level, but anyone would admit that Suarez’s peak was unmatched. He will always be remembered as a legend by Barcelona fans.
Sadly, Suarez wasn’t treated well toward the end of his time in Barcelona and was forced out of the club. Nevertheless, in the hearts of Blaugrana fans, the 37-year-old will forever hold a special place.
Puyol’s words echo the sentiments of all the fans, and we’ll have to wait and see how long the Uruguayan continues to play at the club level.
