Why LA Galaxy star Riqui Puig failed at FC Barcelona
Riqui Puig, a promising midfielder from La Masia, FC Barcelona’s famous youth academy, was expected to shine at FC Barcelona, and eventually captain the side one day. Unfortunately, the 23-year-old has failed to live up to expectations at the club, which has raised concerns among the Barca faithful. But what are the reasons why Riqui Puig flopped at FC Barcelona?
1) Lack of opportunities
One of the significant reasons for Riqui Puig’s lack of success at Barcelona has been the lack of playing time. Puig made his debut under Ernesto Valverde in the 2018–19 season, where he appeared in six games, providing two assists. However, since then, his playing time has been sporadic. Puig was not part of the starting eleven under Quique Setien, who preferred more established midfielders like Sergio Busquets, Ivan Rakitic, and Arturo Vidal. Furthermore, Puig was not considered for most of the matches under Ronald Koeman, who instead relied on Pedri and Frenkie de Jong.
2) Defensive frailties
Another significant reason for Riqui Puig’s inability to establish himself at FC Barcelona is his defensive frailties. Despite being an excellent playmaker, Puig’s defensive abilities have been called into question. Barcelona, like most top teams, rely on their midfielders to contribute defensively. However, Puig has struggled to adapt to the high-intensity pressing game that Barcelona often play. In addition, his physicality has been an issue, with Puig often getting outmuscled in midfield battles.
3) Style of play
Riqui Puig is a classic Barcelona midfielder, with excellent technical abilities and vision. However, his style of play has not always suited the team’s needs. Barcelona have often struggled against deep-lying defenses, which require the team to play more direct football. Puig, on the other hand, prefers to play in tight spaces and is more comfortable when the team is dominating possession. While his style of play has been impressive in the youth ranks, it has not translated into success at the senior level.
4) Lack of physicality
As previously mentioned, Riqui Puig has struggled with the physical demands of playing at the top level. Despite his technical abilities, Puig’s small frame has been an issue, with the midfielder often getting outmuscled in midfield battles. In contrast, Barcelona’s rivals have more physically imposing midfielders who can dominate in the center of the park.
- Conclusion
Riqui Puig is undoubtedly a talented player, and his performances in the youth ranks have impressed many. However, the midfielder has struggled to establish himself at FC Barcelona. A lack of playing time, defensive frailties, style of play, and a lack of physicality have been the main reasons for his failure to make an impact. Puig’s future at Barcelona remains uncertain, with the midfielder linked with a move away from the club in search of more playing time.
