"Pique is better than me, the best in the world"

They were only together six years, but in that time, Carles Puyol, had given his successor, Gerard Pique, enough tips to make him a great defender. Gerard Pique, so different in his way of playing as well as his mentality compared to the ex-Barca captain, has taken over Puyol's role and is one of Barca's main men in recent years.

"Yes, he is the best central defender in the world," says the legendary ex-footballer when asked if Pique is a better player than him. "We are different. He is key to Barcelona in everything he offers, his leadership, how he compites... He is a genius and a great friend," he insists shortly afterwards.

Puyol, who retired five years back, does not hesitate in saying Pique is ahead of other defenders like Van Dijk, De Ligt and Ramos. He also spoke of other topics. 

"Van Gaal was key. He trusted me in a difficult moment and he gave me my debut. I thank him for everything I have been able to experience. Rijkaard was very important and the years in which I have enjoyed and learnt the most were under Pep," says Puyol when talking about his managers. At the same time, he says that it will be difficult for anyone to replicate what was achieved by Pep Guardiola's Barcelona.

Puyol also talked about the change in philosophy which has occurred at Barcelona and puts it down to the fact that there are no longer footballers like there were in his generation: "I think Barca try and play, have possession and dominate matches. But you can't always do that. If you compare it with the Barcelona I was fortunate enough to play in which had Xavi and Iniesta... It's very difficult to see a team like that. The idea and club's philosophy are there and they have kept that. They are trying to play the same brand of football, but it's not easy."

The ex-central defender does not think Barcelona have been missing a leader in this time and also took the opportunity to show his admiration for Leo Messi. "When you have the best player in history, it's normal you depend on him, pero around him there are great players who are making history together and have got some years left in them," he says about the Argentine.

To conclude, Puyol shows his trust in that both Valverde and Luis Enrique are excellent coaches for Barcelona and the national team and also had something to say to those who have devalued Barca' s achievements in Spain because of Real Madrid's Champions Leagues: "Barca have had good seasons. Just like in other moments, Barcelona won the League and Champions League and Real Madrid the cup and it seemed like Madrid had achieved more. It all depends on who shouts the loudest."