The 36-year-old Spaniard has only ever appeared in the colours of Barça and earned a reputation as one of the greatest and most loyal defenders in the world of football.
Puyol, whose achievements include six La Liga titles, three UEFA Champions League winners medals, two Spanish Cups, and two Club World Cups to his name, bade an emotional farewell to the club he has captained since 2004 in front of his mother, brother, partner and friends.
“We tried everything and I’d like to thank the doctors and physics for everything,” Puyol said about his ongoing knee injury.
“We’ve not figured out a way to fix it, but I’ve not given up. I’ll lee trying to sort it out but now without the pressure of having to play,” he added.
The Word Cup winner with Spain in 2010 also revealed that it is unlikely that he’ll continue as a coach at Barcelona.
“I don’t think Ill be a coach, it’s not what i’d like most. Maybe I’ll change my mind, but for now i want to do other things,” he said.
Puyol concluded with a heartfelt thank you to his coaches and teammates from over the years.
“They taught me so much. I’ve played with the best. It’s the end of an era but there will be more and I hope to enjoy them as much as this one. Thank you all very much and Visca el Barça! [Long live Barcelona!].”