Ernesto Valverde praised Barcelona youngster Ruig Puig. The 19-year-old player was handed his Copa del Rey debut for the Catalans against Cultural Leonesa in a 4-1 victory on Thursday.
Puig was promoted to Barcelona B after some time in Juvenil A and his promosing performances last season led the club to slap a stunning release clause of €100 million. However, Valverde insists that the teenager has a bright future at senior team.
“I gave him the typical instructions. It was a change I’d had in mind. He plays with a lot of freedom, and hopefully this was just the first step of a long and fruitful career.” Ernesto told Barca’s website.
“It was a big test for the B team players and they responded to it well. I hope they get to play a lot more games in this stadium.” Valverde added.
Ernesto’s side trashed Leonesa at the Camp Nou to cruise into the fifth round of the Copa del Rel. Barcelona rang the changes for the visit of the Segunda Division Group 1 side, as the likes of Alena, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho were rested.
Midway through the second half, Valverde introduced youngster Puig from the bench for his debut and the Spaniard showed his qualities by setting up Denis Suarez for his second goal of the match to round off the scoring.
If Puig continues at this rate, he can surely become the next big midfield talent at Camp Nou. From a young age, he gave his all to reach the first team.
Ruig Puig is one of Barceloba B players. (Source:www.sportskeeda.com)
“This was a great chance to take a look at some of the younger players and the ones that don’t get to play as much. We want to avoid overloading people like Semedo, Busquets and Rakitic with too many games.” Ernesto said.
Barcelona overcame a dogged Villarreal side to win 2-0 at home on last Monday, with goals from Gerard Pique and youngster Alena they earned maximum points.
The points put Barcelona back on top of the La Liga. Lionel Messi and his teammates will travel to the RCDE Stadium for Blaugrana’s La Liga clash with Espanyol on Sunday before facing Premier League side Tottenham in Champions League Group stage matchday six.
