Riqui Puig a had tough period at Barcelona. The La Masia sensation was one of the brightest prospects in recent years. He had a big bag of immense pressure on his shoulder after some terrible players by the academy came through. Small, quick, Agile, Puig and success at Barcelona were a match made in heaven. He was the one that the fans were willing to see on the pitch. It was one of the highlights of Barcelona 19-20 as Puig was a part of it. He had statement performances against the likes of Atletico Madrid and many more which solidified his place.
But when things go uphill like this, they sure as well go downhill much faster. Puig, who was a starter under Setien and sometimes under Valverde was having too much time in off-the-field activities. Ronald Koeman started to leave him out of matchday squads as the sensational Pedri broke through brilliantly. He would get some appearances for the first team but that would not benefit him much. It was seen as a coaching problem at the club that never seemed to be solved.
As Xavi arrived at the club, fans finally started feeling that there will be a coach who would now trust Riqui. But through weeks and weeks, Xavi was clear to Puig that he is not in his plans. This was the 3rd time a coach at Barcelona was hesitant to use the same player. This clearly indicated issues were not in the coaching but rather it was something in the player only. Puig has now left Barcelona because of no playing time at 23 years old. The young Spaniard has signed for La Galaxy in the MLS.
Puig Disappointed with Barca Treatment
Puig has publically hit out at Barcelona and Xavi criticizing the way they treat players.
“I am really disappointed with Xavi and Barca. My last month was very difficult for me. Leaving a player out of pre season tour, i never saw it before. I was with others in Barcelona, with teammates who the club was looking to force out. This hurt me a lot.”
“There was never a coach who trusted me fully. You lose confidence because of this and get less continuity. I still thank Barcelona for what i am. The ending of my chapter there was not what i expected. But it can be forgotten.”
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