Barcelona defender Carlos Puyol is unlikely to be included in the squad for the World Cup 2014 in a move that could end the international career of the 34-year-old. This was confirmed by Spain’s assistant coach Toni Grande.
Puyol is regarded as one of the greatest players for the Spanish national team in the last few decades. He has been an inspirational part of the team during the success they have had since 2008. World Cup 2014 was largely seen as the final tournament for the defender, but it seems that he has seen the last of a major tournament.
He has made only four starts for Barcelona all season and it has been rumoured heavily that he may even retire from football at the end of the campaign. Grande said that Puyol cannot be ruled out completely as a prospect for the national team, but he is looking increasingly likely to miss out. Grande, however, paid tribute to the player, who has been part of the immense success enjoyed by Barcelona and Spain during this period. He has won World cups, European Championships, Champions league, and la Liga titles during this period.
Puyol is extremely doubtful to feature for Barcelona in the next few months, as he continues his recuperation from the injury. Puyol has featured thus far in all the World Cup Football betting previews online, but by the looks of it Spain will be without their talismanic defender for the defence of their title.
“We haven’t completely ruled him out yet, but naturally, he needs to play a lot more often and be involved in the thick of the action. We haven’t ruled him out yet because there are still three more months until the World Cup, but it’s very difficult for him. He’s been a vital player to the team for a very long time. Not just on the pitch, but also off it, because of his experience, commitment, exemplary behaviour and optimism,” Grande said about the player, who has made 100 appearances for the national team.