Carles Puyol's new routine

Still with the mark of the hot bracelet on his arm, he began a similar routine, although really different from four months ago. He witnessed the Barcelona game against Athletic, but not from the grass or the bench, but from the box, his stronghold in the final stretch of his career due to a damn injury. He wears a navy blue blazer to go a little more elegant than usual, but without separating from his unmistakable empire-cut shirt. On Monday he went to the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, but not to train. He follows the habits of soccer player Carles Puyol, however there is an important detail: unfortunately, he is no longer a professional player, now he is attached to the sports management.

"The new guy we've signed," joked Andoni Zubizarreta as he accompanied him through the labyrinth of coquettish offices. Inhospitable place for him, inhabitant of the lawn who must move to an office. The new assistant began the week with the premiere of his position. Quite a novelty for him, accustomed since he was 17 years old to play with the Barça shield on his chest, and not to be without it in his outfit. Since the end of last season, the former captain has been recovering from his battered right knee and, incidentally, has been psyching himself up about his new situation. He has been getting used to the idea that the brave soccer player gives way to the rookie employee, although his vast experience will be vital for his new task, which his superior detailed 14 days ago.

"It is going to help us in the management process of the football area, which is not only the signings, which is the most eye-catching and striking part. It has to do with the training methodology, with the coordination between all the professional facets and the training football, with the point of view of training to improve, with today's high competition. He can transfer his experience to us, because a few days ago he was on the pitch", he argued, later adding that they are also included in its already numerous functions "how the players adapt in the first team, how to help them in their integration and keep track of those on loan".

At the same time, Puyol is expected to start a sports training process shortly. It should be remembered that in his plans, when he announced his retirement four months ago, he rejected a future as a coach, at least for now. The captain is still in the club. There are things that do not change.