Puyol explains how Rodri’s signing can benefit Barcelona: ‘One of the best midfielders in the world’

Puyol explains how Rodri’s signing can benefit Barcelona: ‘One of the best midfielders in the world’ Carles Puyol may have hung up his boots more than a decade ago, but he still continues to be one of the most respected figures at FC Barcelona. The legendary captain has always had a strong opinion on things pertaining to the Catalan outfit and has given a strong endorsement of the club’s current project. Puyol has praised the work Hansi Flick has done so far, welcomed the arrival of Rodri and offered an important message to Lamine Yamal. Puyol welcomes Rodri Speaking in a media call organised by ESPN, as quoted by AS , Puyol was especially positive about the arrival of Rodri . “Rodri is very good news for Barcelona. We are talking about one of the best midfielders in the world,” he said. Rodri, new Barcelona player. (Photo courtesy: Barcelona official website) The former defender also highlighted the balance Rodri brings and the familiarity of his football with Barça’s style. “He gives teams a lot of balance and fits perfectly with Barcelona’s game. He has shown it with Spain and at City with Guardiola. He is going to help us a lot, it is a key position and now Barcelona’s midfield will be even stronger,” he explained. Flick’s defensive approach earns praise Puyol also backed Flick’s tactical ideas, particularly his willingness to defend with a high line. “I really like playing with a high defensive line. It requires commitment not only from the defenders, because if there is no pressure on the ball they can create a lot of problems for you,” he explained. The high defensive line was one of the most debated topics of Flick’s second season at Barça , with certain cracks seeming to appear. As Puyol points out, for the high line to work, it is not just the defenders who have to be on top of their game. Barcelona also need to ensure that the counter-press does not drop, and they have made signings that help them do just that. Lamine Yamal told to keep improving Puyol was equally enthusiastic about Lamine, but his message came with a reminder. Lamine told to keep improving. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images) “There is a lot of news around Lamine. I see him calm, competitive and with his feet on the ground,” he said. However, Puyol stressed that winning major trophies at such a young age cannot become the finish line. “He has to understand that he has won a World Cup and important titles, but he has to keep improving as a player and try to add more trophies to his record,” he advised. Busquets’ return welcomed The former captain also reacted positively to Sergio Busquets returning to Barcelona in a coaching role with the academy. “It surprised me because I thought he would take a little longer to get involved, but he is destined for it,” Puyol said. “He can help a lot in the academy tactically, but also with all his experience. He is a great leader and a great captain,” he revealed. Busquets was widely considered one of the most intelligent players to have ever played the sport, and it comes as no surprise to see him take to management. He has the chance to work with La Masia graduates in the same way that Pep Guardiola worked with him all those years ago. Puyol’s words clearly suggest that he is extremely happy with how Barcelona have been performing under Flick and hopes to see it continue this upcoming season.