5 replacements for Carles Puyol at Barcelona

Carles Puyol

It was inevitable. On Tuesday, after months of speculation, Carles Puyol officially announced his decision to leave Barcelona at the end of the season. Although his decision came as no surprise, it is fair to say that it has nevertheless rocked the footballing world to it’s core.

Puyol’s departure means that Barcelona must search for an adequate replacement. For far too long, the Catalans have relied on makeshift defenders to do the job while neglecting the idea of bringing a natural centre-back.

However, it seems that Barca now have no choice, but to invest in an adequate defender. And as the rumour mill goes into overdrive, we take a look at five defenders who El Blaugrana should consider as possible candidates to replace Carles Puyol.

Vincent Kompany

Despite suffering injuries late last term and earlier this season, Kompany remains a world-class defender and perhaps the one of the only modern day defenders that fit into that same ‘Puyol’ mould. He enjoys a 49% tackling success rate and has made over 31 interceptions this term,establishing himself as one of England’s most influential defenders.

Not only is Kompany a colossal figure, his is quick at the back, at technician at the art of tackling and also a terrific organiser. His leadership qualities demonstrated at the Etihad will mean that he has plenty to offer at the Camp Nou. However, as a well-establish centre back, there is no doubt that Barcelona will have to pay a hefty fee to secure his services.

David Luiz

Chelsea centre-back David Luiz has also been touted as a hot favourite to replace Carles Puyol at Barcelona as the Brazilian possesses similar traits to Catalans’ own resident defender.

Not only is he a stereotype of a modern-day centre-back – comfortable in possession of the ball and an adept passer – he is also a great tackler and, despite his tendency for hiccups, his undoubted quality makes him an attractive candidate for Barca. Hi

However, having signed a long term contract, he will make for an expensive signing and there is no doubt that he is part of Mourinho’s long-term plans at Stamford Bridge.

Daniel Agger

Liverpool defender Daniel Agger is very much a mixture of Puyol and Pique.

Not only is he a resilient defender and a tough tackler, qualities that resemble those of Puyol, he is also great with the ball at his feet and is very much involved with attacks.

This season, his stats have been phenomenal. He has an average of 61% for ‘duels won’ with a 52% tackling success rate.

Agger has attracted a number of clubs, however opted to sign a new contract with the Anfield club. However, with Brendan Rodgers focused on youth regeneration at the club, an attractive bid may lure the Dane away.

Mats Hummels

Over the past few years, Mats Hummels has developed into a world-class centre back and is one of the raging hot favourites to replace the departing Catalan.

Despite enjoying a relatively ordinary season this term, he is one of Europe’s best defenders and brings a brilliant combination of power, technique and strength.

Having established himself in the heart of Germany’s defence, the Puyol-esque defender is Barcelona’s ideal signing. And despite expressing interest in joining, it is likely that Barca will have to pay a hefty fee for his services.

Inigo Martinez

Perhaps the most unlikely of candidates is Real Sociedad’s Inigo Martinez.

Over the past few years, Inigo Martinez has established himself as one of the most exciting young defensive talents of the game. What he lacks in speed, he makes up for precision, technique and strength. He is a great tackler and is surprisingly good in the air.

Of all the candidates, Inigo Martinez enjoys the best tacking success rate of them all (57). In addition, he has made over 135 clearances and 41 interceptions in a league with is touted as the best in the world.

He has been based in Spain for years and is perhaps an ideal candidate in that he is familiar with the style of play and therefore should be considered as one Barcelona’s cheaper alternatives.

Edited by Staff Editor