Barcelona’s 3-1 win over Villarreal on the weekend was not just another step to stay within striking distance of La Liga toppers Real Madrid for captain Carles Puyol. It was his 500th appearance for the club in what has been an illustrious 12 years with the senior team. Puyi, as his friends refer to him, is the third most featured Barca player in the history of the club behind teammate Xavi (540) and the 70’s and 80’s legend Migueli (549).
As Xavi will be looking forward to become to most featured Barca player ever, lets take a brief look at Puyol’s career.
Out of his 500 appearances, 339 have come in the league while 102 have been in the UEFA Champions League. A reflection of how seasoned and experienced the Catalan defender is. During his time at the club, he has lifted the European Cup twice (2005/06 and 2008/09) and he has been named for many individual awards as well.
In other competitions, he has made 38 Spanish Cup appearances, nine in UEFA Cup (now Europa League), six in Spanish Super Cup, four in World Club Cup and two in European Super Cup.
Although, critics and commentators have referred to the 32 year old defender as a time-bomb waiting to explode but he has always been able to get the job done with commitment, strength and character.
Even though he has always been a defender but he has had his share of goals over the years. Notably, his headers against Real Madrid last season at the Bernebeu and of course for Spain in the World Cup against Germany.
Here’s a little video compilation released by FCB Fans:
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