Picture Credit: X
Indian football fans are in for a treat as the iconic clash between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid arrives in Mumbai. The eagerly awaited Legends Faceoff El Clasico will be hosted at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, on April 6, 2025, at 7 PM. This one-off match will see some of the all-time greats from both teams re-play the epic encounters that have come to define the sport. The Barca Legends team will be captained by legendary center-back Carles Puyol. The Barcelona Legends features renowned players such as Xavi Hernandez, Rivaldo, Patrick Kluivert, Ludovic Giuly, and Gaizka Mendieta.
On the other side, the Real Madrid Legends will be led by Luis Figo, with stars including Michael Owen, Fernando Morientes, Christian Karembeu, Pepe, and Francisco Pavón. This is a historic moment when two of the world's largest football clubs bring their legendary rivalry to India. Commenting on the event, Carles Puyol showed his enthusiasm by stating, "Playing in India for the first time is a dream come true. The passion of Indian football fans is unmatched."
A look at Carles Puyol’s decorated career
Carles Puyol is greatly considered one of FC Barcelona's all-time captains and defenders for his leadership qualities, determination, and loyalty towards the club. Born in Spain, La Pobla de Segur, he signed at Barcelona's famous youth academy, La Masia, before stepping up to play for the seniors in 1999. Within the next 15 years, Puyol established himself as the pillar of Barça defense, making a total of 593 appearances and inspiring the team towards several victories. Between 2004 and 2014, Puyol was club captain, and he was at the forefront of Barcelona's golden age, especially during Pep Guardiola's time.
He assisted the team in claiming six La Liga titles, three UEFA Champions League titles, and two Copa del Rey titles, in addition to other awards. His partnership with Gerard Piqué was the bedrock of Barcelona's success, and he was renowned for his in-your-face tackles, aerial ability, and motivational drive that drew in his teammates. One of his most memorable moments was in 2009, when he held aloft the Champions League trophy following Barcelona's historic treble-winning campaign.
