Puyol sees similarities between himself and Barcelona centre-back

Carles Puyol was in the news earlier today as Ibai Cuadrado compared youth prospect Sergi Dominguez to the legendary Barcelona defender.

Now, Puyol himself sat down with Diario SPORT for an interview, where he talked about various things, including Ronald Araujo – Barcelona’s most valued defender.

Puyol sees similarities between himself and Araujo

The former Barcelona captain had good things to say about Araujo, who is currently recovering from a long-term injury.

In fact, Puyol even admitted that he sees similarities between him and Araujo, in terms of how the two defenders approach the game.

“For me, he is a very good player and one of the best defenders in the world. I think everyone has to make their own career but we can have some similarities,” he said when asked about Araujo.

Puyol’s statement should be a real confidence booster for Araujo, as he looks to return to the pitch after a long spell on the sidelines.

It also comes at an opportune time as Araujo is currently in the final phase of his recovery and could soon be available at the disposal of coach Hansi Flick.

Although much has been speculated regarding Araujo and his place in the team, especially with Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez performing well, we are still yet to see what Flick makes of the Uruguayan international.

There is a good chance Flick will appreciate Araujo’s leadership quality and aggression, although how quickly the Uruguayan will familiarise himself with the German’s high line of press remains to be seen.

Speaking of Uruguayans, Puyol, during the interview, heaped praise on former Barcelona legend Luis Suarez, who recently ended his international career.

“I identify a lot with his way of understanding this sport and the truth is that I congratulate him for the career he has had. And he’s still winning titles,” he said.