Riqui Puig, Barcelona’s next big midfield talent
La Masia star Riqui Puig is the future of the Catalan club.
Despite only playing 45 minutes in the club’s last International Champions Cup match, his performance drew much attention to the fact that Puig could be an up and coming star at Barcelona.
The youngster took part in the second half against AC Milan, and his little time on the pitch surprised the football world with Andrés Iniesta-esque touches and a vision very similar to the incredible vision of Barcelona legend Xavi.
Puig’s exquisite performance on the field against the Italians did not just result in Ernesto Valverde praising the player but also had the Milan coach gushing about the 18-year-old, describing the midfielder as a “spectacular footballer.”
Will he feature in the Supercopa?
After the pre-season campaign, which came as a test for the players, Valverde will have to decide who will start the upcoming Supercopa de Espana.
In the case of Puig, it still remains unclear whether the coach will bet on the youngster for the final against Sevilla this Sunday. But what is for sure is that the player will travel with the team, despite his participation on the field still being in the air.
Trust and confidence is key
If Riqui Puig continues at this rate, he can surely become the next big midfield talent at Barcelona. From a young age, he gave his all to reach the first team, denying many outside offers to stay put with the Catalans. It now seems like his dream of playing alongside Lionel Messi and co. is a strong possibility.
The youngster was promoted to Barcelona B after some time in Juvenil A and his promising performances last season led the club to slap a stunning release clause of 100 million euros.
At the moment, his situation with the Blaugrana looks even better especially after his short yet excellent participation in North America. But what the footballer needs is the utmost confidence from his coach.
What is needed is for Ernesto Valverde to have the same confidence and trust with Puig that Frank Rijkaard had with Messi, Pep Guardiola with Sergio Busquets, Johan Cruyff with Guardiola and Louis Van Gaal with Xavi.
Next. Philippe Coutinho gains Portuguese dual citizenship. dark
El Txingurri must trust the youth player, who encrypts the Barca DNA and give him playing time as that will be the only way Puig can grow into the excellent and intelligent player he has the potential to be.