Carles Puyol names Real Madrid legend Raul as the smartest guy he's played with

It’s not everyday a Barcelona man praises a footballer who plays for their eternal rivals Real Madrid. But Puyol has done exactly that. The Barcelona legend was interviewed by the website The Players Tribune where he was part of the What the (Blank)? segment.

He was asked a series of questions during the interview one of which was the question – who was the smartest player he played with, to which he replied, Raul Gonzalez. Puyol has played both against and with Raul during his playing career.

The former Madrid forward is one of the greatest forwards to have played the game. Raul was a pure striker always in the right place at the right time. He was Los Blancos’ record goalscorer until his tally was beaten by Cristiano Ronaldo.

He had a predatory instinct to his game and almost always guaranteed you a goal every match. Raul spent 16 seasons at the Bernabeu and scored 323 goals in 550 appearances across all competitions.

Puyol himself is a footballing icon in Catalonia. The defender was one of the best in the world but it was his sportsmanship on the field that was lauded by all. Puyol was a natural born leader and Barcelona have struggled to replace him since his departure.

Pique and Puyol formed a wonderful partnership under Pep Guardiola as Barcelona won a historic treble. Since Puyol’s retirement, defenders have tried their hand in partnering Pique without too much success.

Javier Mascherano did a good job for some time but recently his form has been inconsistent. Puyol also talked about other aspects during his interview. He named Ronald Koeman as the best penalty taker.

Puyol’ said his biggest superstition while playing was his habit of stepping onto the pitch with his right foot first. The funniest player he’s encountered is not surprisingly Gerard Pique. He was also asked what his dream job would be if hadn’t become a footballer to which his answer was a Sports Director.

Puyol’s secret weapon to win a penalty shootout was to pray to God.

The La Liga race will come to its conclusion in the next few weeks and it couldn’t be closer. Barcelona are still top if the table but Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid are very much in the mix. The Catalans will have to compulsorily win their last two games to clinch their second successive title after a slump in form let the Madrid clubs back in the race.