Puyol on Suarez, signings & coaching

Carles Puyol has given an interview to FIFA’s official website in which he discusses Luis Suarez, Barcelona’s transfers and his future.

Mundo Deportivo reports Puyol as referring to the biting incident involving Suarez and Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini at the World Cup, for which the Barca new boy has been banned for four months.

“The actions of Suarez aren’t justifiable but there are times when things can happen,” he said.

“Anyway, he’s apologised. He’s a great player, very competitive and he scores goals.

“I believe he can bring a lot to a front line which, in turn, has great quality. With Luis, it’s stronger.”

Puyol retired at the end of the season and is now working with sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta. The former captain confirmed Barca want centre-backs but insisted it’s not as easy as that.

“Barca has long sought centre-backs, as has half of Europe, so it’s not easy it’s harder for us with our style of play,” he added.

“To play for Barcelona, as well has being good with the ball, you need to be fast because we defend a long way away from goal, and when you look back and see so many metres, you get dizzy.”

Puyol’s departure is one of many that have signalled a changing of the guard at Camp Nou, the former captain reflecting on the close of his cycle and the start of another.

“There have been players who have made history but it’s the law of life, either through injury like me or because, like [Victor Valdes], you decide on a change,” he said.

“When we arrived there were others here and now we go as well. The important thing is the team is always above the players.

“Many have told me I should be a Coach but I wasn’t called. The best is obviously to play, but that’s all over. You must find your site, and it has to be linked to what you can do.

“Barcelona has given me this opportunity and I am very grateful.

“Initially there will be a learning period and I’m not making decisions. I will face it with the same enthusiasm and excitement that I had in my career.

“I’ll try to bring all that football has taught me in the last 19 years.”

Tags Carles Puyol Luis Suarez
La Liga - Club News