We just can't imagine Xavi giving little game time to Riqui Puig!
Here are some of the facts proving that their relationship may be cordial.
1. They know each other for long
Puig was born in Matadepera, a small village outside of Terrassa, the same town one and only Xavi Hernandez grew up in.
It's not a surprise that Xavi and Riqui Puig's family spent some time together on the vacations. Just take a look at his adorable picture of Xavi together with Riqui and his brother.
2. Puig used to name Xavi as his reference
"I have made it quite clear other times, for a home player the joy is to be close to the first team. My references have been Xavi and Iniesta. They were patient to have the opportunity and I have to be like them," Riqui Puig told Mundo Deportivo in 2019.
3. Puig almost joined Al Sadd on loan
According to Mundo Deportivo, there was some real interest from Xavi's side in 2019, but Riqui preferred to stay and fight for the starter spot at Barca.
4. Victor Font once 'guaranteed' Puig's starter spot
"Xavi told me that, if he were the Barcelona coach, Riqui Puig would be a starter," one of the presidential candidates told the media in 2020.
As a reminder, Font is a very close friend of Xavi.
5. Puig has hired Xavi's agents
Riqui Puig and Xavi are both being represented by Arturo Canales as the youngster has recently changed agents.
Bonus point: In 2021, Riqui scored a goal that was similar to Xavi's first-ever La Liga strike! It has to mean something...
