Barcelona: Riqui Puig is ready to step-up to the challenge

After all the topsy-turvy, talented youngsters are ready to elevate their game, rise to the occasion for the future of FC Barcelona. Barcelona as we know it is changing after the shocking departure of the Blaugrana captain Lionel Messi. But we are hopeful for the start of a new future, one that promises the rise of several young La Masia graduates.

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There is no better prospect in producing versatile and talented youngsters than Barcelona’s academy. Riqui Puig is going into his fourth season at the club. Last year things looked dire for him as he couldn’t win over the manager’s trust. Things are looking to improve at the Camp Nou for Puig this season as the massive void (left by Messi) would take many shoes to fill.

It’s Riqui Puig’s time in Barcelona

Ronald Koeman has given the cold shoulder treatment to Riqui Puig over the last season. He has even told the young Spaniard to go out on loan spells previously during the two transfer windows.

But, judging from the pre-seasons, we can expect Puig to climb up the totem pole this season in Koeman’s consideration.

The 21-year-old is brave and bold. Puig has stuck here against the gaffer’s wishes with grit and determination to elevate and impress the boss with whatever chances bestow upon him. Fortune smiles over the brave. Rightfully so because Puig has earned his minutes from the boss during the pre-season this year.

With two starts and once as a substitute, he looks to be in good touch ahead of the season. Fighting for his place, constantly, is looking to end as the departure of Messi demands the urgent need of playmakers, who are molded into the high octane of FC Barcelona.

Koeman isn’t going to be as confident as he had expected to be at starting the season. He would, however, consider utilizing the advantage of the club’s youths massively. Players like Gavi, Nico Gonzalez, Yusuf Demir, Alejandro Balde, and Rey Manaj, alongside Puig, could expect plenty of minutes.