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Riqui Puig’s similarities with Xavi Hernandez’s career

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After Riqui Puig’s response to Ronald Koeman, we might want to explain his whole situation and the similarities it has with Xavi Hernandez. 

Riqui Puig is currently going through a very similar situation that Xavi Hernandez went through when he started his career. Yesterday, the youngster played a fair amount of minutes in the Spanish Supercup semifinal against Real Sociedad. But he didn’t seem satisfied with the minutes he got, he wanted something else. As Ronald Koeman picked the first four penalty-kick takers, he immediately asked who was up to take the fifth one.

If you didn’t know, the final penalty is usually the most difficult to take due to the pressure it can have on players. Only the ones with a strong character will agree to take them. Riqui didn’t even flinch when the gaffer asked, he lifted up his hand and took the responsibility. We all saw the result with Riqui scoring his first goal as a Barcelona player in a crunch game. But we need to explain how he got there and the situation he is going through. 

Riqui’s similarities with Xavi Hernandez. 

Just like it happened to Riqui Puig, Xavi Hernandez also was repeatedly ignored by his managers during the start of his career. Despite making him debut, Louis van Gaal didn’t really give him the proper starring role as other coaches did in the future. The legendary midfielder kept getting offers from other clubs but he was determined to become a starter at FC Barcelona.

Just like Riqui, Xavi grew up in La Masia and his dream was stronger than any offer that came from some of the biggest clubs in the world. After hearing his determination when yesterday’s match ended, we are more certain about his future than ever. This is a player who will remain at FC Barcelona until he can finally become the important player he always dreamed of. Club supporters are always rooting for him to succeed.

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