Although the Champions League is just beginning, and it’s much too soon to talk about who’s leading the group, Carles Puyol told reporters on Tuesday afternoon: “It’s important to start with a win”.
Inter v Barça is the most attractive game of the first CL matchday. Not
only are they two of Europe’s greatest clubs, but there is also the prospect of Eto'o, now
with Inter, and Ibrahimovic, Barça’s star summer signing, lining up against their old
team-mates.
Club captain Carles Puyol is aware that these two players will attract much of the attention
but warned that “we have to be careful” with the other players.
Respect for the opponents
Carles Puyol rejects any talk of an Inter – Barça duel for first
place in the group: “It’s too early and you have to respect all out opponents.
It’s important to start with a win but there are five more matches and we have to go a step
at a time”.
The dangers of Inter
Carles Puyol has a great deal of respect for Inter: “They’re one of the
best teams in Europe. They’re very strong physically and have some quality players”.
Facing Eto'o
Meanwhile, Carles Puyol is “excited” about meeting up again
with Samuel Eto'o, with whom he shared five great years at Barça: “It’s a challenge.
He’s one of the best players in the world and it’ll be a difficult job”.
However, Puyol doesn’t believe Eto’o will be especially motivated against his old
club: “He gives 100% in every match, right up to the end”.
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Not worried about his future
Carles Puyol, whose contract runs out at the end of the season, isn’t worrying about his
future: “I’m focussed on playing – there’ll be time to talk with the club.
I feel I’m an important player. I’ve got plenty of football left in me”.
Joan Laporta referred to Puyol’s contract on Monday and assured everyone:
“He’s a player we want in the Club and given his age he’s got two important
contracts left”. However, the president understands that Puyol may wish to broaden his
experience away from Barça.