Carles Puyol is undeniably one of the greatest defenders to grace a football pitch. But fans forget the hard path he took to get the legacy he has today.
The Spaniard is renowned for being the pillar of Barcelona’s defence. Throughout his career, he reached the absolute pinnacle of the sport. As the captain at the Nou Camp, he impressively guided the club to three Champions Leagues and six La Ligas. But he didn’t just have success at Barca.
Puyol solidified his legend by playing his part in Spain’s European Championship and World Cup victories in 2008 and 2010, respectively. Without his shining attitude, the country may never have enjoyed the golden age they experienced.
The centre-back put his absolute all into every single game he played. He was never afraid to commit to a tackle or fight for the ball in the air. But perhaps the best element of his game was his ability to read his surroundings. Puyol knew precisely where to be and when to be there. He’d bully players out of possession with his rugged strength and made them shy away from crossing paths with him for the rest of the game.
But although we remember him for the good times, he endured an arduous journey to create the legacy he has today.
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Since his retirement eight years ago, the Spaniard has sat back and reminisced over his successful career. He won 24 major trophies, which created many cherishable moments. But incredibly, he didn’t win a single piece of silverware until he hit 27.
In the space of just nine years, the legendary defender won two dozen competitions. During his run as a professional footballer, it looked like it might never happen for him. However, he never stopped believing in himself. He continued to try his best, hoping that one day he’d get his moment.
As per Fansided, he received offers from AC Milan and Manchester United, but his heart belonged to Barcelona. Eventually, his loyalty paid dividends. After years of hardships, he won the 2004-05 La Liga, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Carles Puyol is an inspiration for underachieving players
The icon always had the talent, even if it didn’t quite work out for him on the pitch. But his career is clear evidence that it’s never over.
As Rocky Balboa once said: “It’s not how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.”
Puyol’s career is undoubtedly a testament to the power of dreams. It didn’t matter that he hadn’t crossed the line. Nothing was ever going to stop him from trying. One player in particular who could find comfort in this is Harry Kane.
The English international is one of the great strikers on the planet. But at 28-years-old he’s still yet to win a trophy. However, if he can embody even 50% of Puyol’s desire, then there’s time for him to turn it around.
It might not be at Tottenham, but if he keeps playing at his best, then one day, he will get his reward.
Featured Image Credit: Getty
