Carles Puyol explains what he learnt at La Masia

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The former captain has been talking about his younger days

Former Barcelona captain Carles Puyol has highlighted the importance of La Masia to his career and explained exactly what he learnt during his time at the youth academy.

Puyol came through the ranks at Barca and went on to enjoy an extraordinary career, winning three Champions League titles and six league trophies.

He has explained how the values he was taught at La Masia has had an impact on his whole life and went far beyond just football.

“I arrived at La Masia aged 17, which was a bit older than some of the others like Iniesta and Xavi. I learned so much there which had an impact on the rest of my life. We lived alongside each other, and even though it was different ages we were one group, all fighting for the same objective – to reach the first team of Barcelona. So between us we all needed to help each other.

“What was taught first and foremost was respect to others, and a sense of togetherness, of empathy. These values translated beyond football. It was such a tight-knit community, it was so small we were living in each other’s pockets. I felt a sense of brotherhood. We always helped each other, and we still do.”

Source | The Independent

Puyol has recently turned down a return to Barcelona as the club’s sporting director, explaining the time isn’t right due to his involvement in a number of other projects currently. However, you get the feeling it might not be too long before we see him back at Barca.

Source: barcablaugranes.com